Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has formally pitched his tent with the Accord Party, days after his exit from the Peoples Democratic Party.
His announcement confirms earlier indications that he intends to pursue a second term in office under the banner of the party, popularly referred to as the Thumb Up Party.
The declaration took place on Tuesday at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, where national and state leaders of the Accord Party gathered to welcome the governor into their fold.
Adeleke revealed that his move was made weeks earlier. “I joined the Accord Party more than a month ago, precisely on November 6, as a platform to seek re-election in 2026. This was after weeks of consultation and deliberations with stakeholders and opinion leaders,” he said.
He stated that residents and political stakeholders were already aware of the factors behind his defection. “Stakeholders and residents of Osun State are aware of why we are taking this important decision. We intend to pursue a second term in office on the platform of the Accord Party to complete ongoing delivery of good governance and democratic dividends, which have been applauded at home and abroad,” he added.
The governor further explained that the party’s ideology informed his decision. “We opted for the Accord Party because its mission of welfarism aligns with our passionate focus on citizens’ and workers’ welfare.”
Welcoming Accord Party leaders to the Government House, Adeleke described the moment as a unifying step. “I welcome our party leaders into the Osun State Government House. You are now part of us, as I am also now part of you. We are united in progress and good intentions for the good people of Osun State and Nigeria at large.”
He stressed the need for cohesion ahead of the 2026 polls. “At this historical point, our task is to sustain a united front as we prepare for the elections. We have a duty to ensure an inclusive leadership where them interests of all groups are cared for. Our party, Accord Party, is here to take over Osun governance and sustain the delivery of good governance in our dear state.”
Reflecting on his month-long association with the party, he said, “Since I joined the party more than a month ago, I have been fascinated by the philosophy of this great party. The focus on people’s welfare should always be at the heart of public leadership. The primary essence of a government is the welfare and well-being of the people.”
The governor also highlighted his administration’s emphasis on social and infrastructural development. “As a governor, I have prioritised the welfare of our people, from workers to the entire citizenry. Day and night, we implement policies and programmes to elevate the well-being of our people. From infrastructure to social services, Osun has never had it so good in governance and service delivery.”
He presented the Accord Party as the new platform for his political base across the three senatorial districts. “Today, we unveil the new platform for the good people of Osun State. From Osun West to Osun East to Osun Central, this is our party, our new platform for victory come August next year.”
Adeleke called on supporters across various communities to rally behind the Accord symbol. “From Igbomina to Ijeshaland to Ifeland to Osogbo to Iwoland to Modakeke to Gbongan to Igbajo to Ikire to Ikirun to Ede and other lands of Osun State, we must thumb up according to our collective desires for good governance.”
He expressed confidence that voters would back his quest for continuity. “Osun voted for good governance in 2022 and they will support continuity in 2026. The mass of our people are for continuity and Accord is our party for victory next year.”
In his concluding declaration, the governor affirmed his allegiance to his new political home. “In accordance with the will of our stakeholders and to accord deep respect for the wishes of Osun people, I hereby accordingly declare for the Accord Party,” he announced.
