Dr. Yemi Farounbi, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, stated on Tuesday that Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke might face negative consequences for endorsing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid if a concrete agreement isn’t secured with the President beforehand.
Governor Adeleke and the Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recently announced their support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.
Reacting to this move, Farounbi, who is also from Osun State, acknowledged that the declaration would please Tinubu, recognizing Osun’s crucial role in his potential 2027 victory.
However, the elder statesman cautioned that Governor Adeleke’s public endorsement could “boomerang” if a proper, reciprocal agreement is not established with the President.
He stressed the importance of concurrence and an assurance of reciprocal support.
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Farounbi said, ”I believe the PDP is just muddling through without careful thought. All the excuses given for not proceeding with the planned movement of PDP should have been considered before making a public announcement. A deal ought to have been sealed before making a pronouncement.
”Perhaps, the earlier announcement will cost the party a loss of prestige and membership. Some two senators and members of the House of Representatives have crossed to the APC since the earlier announcement.
“I hope that this agreement to support PBAT for Presidency has its concurrence and an assurance of reciprocal support. Unlike Delta and Akwa Ibom states, where the Presidential and Gubernatorial elections will be held simultaneously in 2027, the gubernatorial election in Osun will be held in 2026. The president can afford to wait to know the winner before deciding on which party to woo.
“Given the fluid political situation in Nigeria, it is to be expected that PBAT needs a solid hold on SW votes. And given that he’s related to Osun State, PBAT needs the votes in the state.
”This declaration certainly will gladden his heart. This open betrayal of whoever becomes the PDP presidential candidate may work against the governor, unless he really has a sealed deal with PBAT.
“In the final analysis, Governor Adeleke may be the loser, unless this recent declaration has the blessing of PBAT. Otherwise it could be a leap in the dark. I hope not’.’
