By Mercy Aikoye
The Imole Campaign Council has dismissed speculation that Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, is planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his recent visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was purely customary and aimed at strengthening peace and cooperation after the state’s off-cycle election.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Chairman of the Council’s Media and Publicity Committee, Rep. Bamidele Salam, the campaign council said Adeleke’s visit to the President was in keeping with Nigeria’s political tradition following the conclusion of off-cycle elections.
The council explained that governors who emerge victorious in such elections have a responsibility to pay respect to the President and Commander-in-Chief, particularly where the Federal Government had publicly pledged to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
According to the statement, the meeting also provided an opportunity for Tinubu and Adeleke to discuss issues concerning the security, peace and development of Osun State following what it described as a tense election period.
The council, however, strongly rejected reports and insinuations that the meeting was connected to an alleged plan by Adeleke to move to the APC.
“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,” the statement said.
It further clarified that the issue of defection was not discussed at any point during the governor’s meeting with President Tinubu, insisting that the visit should not be interpreted as an indication of any impending political realignment.
The campaign council urged supporters of Adeleke and members of the public to disregard what it described as speculation surrounding the governor’s political future.
It said Adeleke remained focused on his responsibilities and would continue to work in the interest of Osun State, particularly after the recently concluded election.
The council also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for granting Adeleke and members of his team the opportunity to visit him, describing the engagement as part of the broader responsibility of political leaders to maintain dialogue and promote peace.
Salam assured supporters of the governor that Adeleke remained committed to serving the people of Osun State, whom he said had stood firmly behind him during the election.
The statement was signed by Hon. Bamidele Salam, Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee of the Imole Campaign Council, and dated August 21, 2026.
