Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked speculation about a potential political defection from the Accord Party to the All Progressives Congress, APC. However, the Imole Campaign Council has firmly dismissed these claims, stating that the visit was purely ceremonial and in line with political tradition following off-cycle elections. The council emphasized that no discussions about party switching took place during the meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
In a statement released on Friday by Bamidele Salam, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the Imole Campaign Council, the group clarified that Governor Adeleke’s visit was a customary gesture of respect to the President and Commander-in-Chief after securing victory in the August 15 Osun governorship election. The statement noted that such visits are common practice in Nigerian politics, especially after electoral outcomes are confirmed.
The campaign council highlighted that President Tinubu had consistently advocated for a free and fair electoral process in Osun, urging INEC and security agencies to ensure credibility. The meeting also provided an opportunity for both leaders to discuss peace, security, and development in Osun State, which experienced heightened tensions during the election period. Governor Adeleke was accompanied by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, underscoring the significance of the engagement.
Addressing widespread rumors, the council stressed that there was no mention of Adeleke decamping to the APC during the visit. “For the avoidance of doubt, the visit of Mr Governor and top members of his Campaign team had absolutely nothing to do with a plan to move from Accord to the All Progressives Congress as being insinuated in certain quarters,” the statement read. It further reiterated: “We wish to state unequivocally that at no stage during the visit to Mr President was the issue of decamping to the APC discussed.”
This clarification comes after President Tinubu congratulated Governor Adeleke via phone call, describing the election outcome as “a fitting assurance that democracy will continue to flourish in our country.” The Imole Campaign Council reassured supporters that Adeleke remains committed to governance and focused on serving the people of Osun State without distraction from political realignment rumors.
As the governor prepares to begin his second term, the emphasis remains on delivering on promises made during the campaign. The council’s statement aims to dispel misinformation and reaffirm unity within the Accord Party. With the political landscape in Nigeria often shaped by shifting alliances, this public clarification serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate reporting and transparency in governance.
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