Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has officially joined the Accord Party, days after announcing his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke, who made the declaration on Tuesday in Osogbo, also confirmed his intention to seek a second term in office on the party’s platform, popularly referred to as the “Thumb-Up” party.
The governor disclosed that he had secretly joined the party earlier, saying, “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.
“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 the ongoing delivery of good governance and democratic dividends, which have been applauded at home and abroad.”
Adeleke explained that he chose the Accord Party because its ideology emphasises welfare, which he said aligns with his administration’s commitment to citizens’ and workers’ well-being.
He said, “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.
“At this historical point, our task is to sustain a united front as we prepare for the elections. We have a duty to ensure inclusive leadership where the interests of all groups are considered. Our party, Accord Party, is here to take over Osun governance and sustain the delivery of good governance in our dear state.
“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 government is the welfare and well-being of the people.
“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 also declared the Accord Party as the new political vehicle for his re-election bid, adding, “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.
“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.
“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 accordance with the will of our stakeholders and to accord deep respect for the wishes of the Osun people, I hereby declare for the Accord Party.”
Adeleke had on December 2 formally announced his exit from the PDP, citing prolonged leadership disputes at the party’s national level.
