The interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has hinted that Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has concluded plans to leave the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

He made the declaration on Sunday during a homecoming solidarity event in Osogbo.

Adeleke’s rumoured defection was contained in Aregebesola’s statement, where he hinted that the 2026 race may no longer feature three major parties, if feelers from the state are anything to go by.

The former Minister of Interior added that the incumbent Governor is already on his way out, hence his desire and resolve to contest for the state gubernatorial election in 2026.

“Leave them to their agitation. Our aim should be to take over Osun State before the vote on August 8, 2026. They already know they are on their way out,” he said.

In a sharp contrast to Aregebesola’s claims, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress said Adeleke has not defected to its fold, urging members of the public to discountenance the insinuations.

Osun APC spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, disclosed that although there were constitutional hurdles that needed to be crossed for Adeleke to defect into its fold, the governor remains in the PDP.

The party further said it observed that some of the allies of the governor had become ecstatic about the possibility of him joining APC, “which at the moment remains within the realm of speculation.

“We want to state categorically and unequivocally that it is a lie from the pit of hell being told by the governor and his lieutenants that the state helmsman has defected into our party, as nothing of such is happening or being contemplated at all the levels of our party.

“At no time was there any pressure from the Presidency that Governor Adeleke should defect into our party, as it has been the rumour by the governor’s lieutenants and his co-travellers.” (The Guardian)