In Osun State, speculation is rife that Executive Governor, Sen. Ademola Adeleke may be considering a defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This potential move has drawn widespread condemnation from the people of Osun, who are urging the governor and his political allies to reconsider.
Reports from our correspondents across major towns and cities indicate a strong opposition to this possible decision. Many residents have labeled it a “suicidal” move and a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the electorate.
Our correspondent who visited Igbona market in the state capital, noted that the atmosphere turned grim when the rumour circulated. One trader expressed deep concern, questioning, “Has he forgotten that his elder brother was killed in the APC? Is he a bastard?” Such sentiments reflect the emotional turmoil among residents, who feel betrayed at the mere thought of the governor aligning with the party.
Another commentator voiced disappointment, stating, “No matter what, he should not have considered joining APC. That action will erode the legacy of their father and even that of his brother. Frankly, I’m so disappointed he even entertained the idea.”
This correspondent continued to the Government Secretariat in Abeere, where civil servants voiced their strong opposition to any potential defection. Many declared that such a move would not only jeopardise Sen. Adeleke’s political future but could also dismantle the entire Adeleke dynasty. One civil servant exclaimed, “He wants to throw us under the trailer. We won’t forgive him, and the Adeleke generations will bear the consequences.”
Residents highlighted their unwavering support for Adeleke, emphasising their collective effort to stand against perceived oppression. “Some have not been going to work since March to protest the LG issue. If this rumor proves true, we will confront him alongside our other adversaries. We will call on God to help us confront them,” one civil servant concluded.
Efforts to reach labour leaders for comment were unsuccessful, as they declined to speak at this time.
Similar sentiments were echoed in Ede, Ejigbo, and Iwo, where Adeleke’s kinsmen expressed their reluctance to follow him down this path. Some, speaking anonymously, declared they would abandon him if he defected. “Not even Timi can sway us. We’ve cursed ourselves and our relations to avoid any connection with the APC out of love for Adeleke. It will not happen,” one local stated.
A resident in Ede became emotional during a discussion, saying, “I can’t go with him. I lost my brother during one of the APC crises involving the Adelekes. Our aged mother still hasn’t recovered. How can I join the party that killed my brother? It’s unthinkable.”
Similar resolve was apparent in Ejigbo and Iwo, where residents expressed disappointment over the governor’s potential shift. “We supported him because we saw how his brother was treated by Aregebesola and the APC.
They wanted to bury the kindness of their family, which led to his brother’s death. Now, he wants to join the same party? That’s unwise. He can make his own choices, but the people of Osun will also have their say,” one resident remarked.
In Ife, concerns linger about their own son, Iyiola Omisore, who was criticised for allegedly betraying Governor Adeleke in 2018. One elderly man questioned, “Are we going to apologise to Iyiola Omisore and admit we were foolish? I don’t even understand.”
As the situation unfolds, the people of Osun State remain steadfast in their opposition to any potential defection by Governor Adeleke, emphasising loyalty to the legacy of the Adelekes and their commitment to the community.
