Osun Election: APM Candidate Withdraws From Race, Backs Adeleke

Allied People’s Movement (APM) gubernatorial flagbearer Adebayo Adewale has officially stepped down from the upcoming Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday, throwing his weight behind sitting Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke for a second term.

Adewale made his position known during a media briefing on Thursday, urging all party members and loyalists throughout the state to cast their ballots for Adeleke, who is contesting under the Accord Party.

The politician characterized his choice as a deliberate step to prioritize the welfare of Osun State over personal political aspirations, noting that it will allow the governor to build upon ongoing developmental strides.

He emphasized that governance must center on public service, stating that his withdrawal and endorsement are designed to promote harmony, steady progress, and the overall prosperity of the region.

He stated: “After a deep reflection and extensive consultations with party leaders, supporters and stakeholders, I have decided to withdraw from the Osun State governorship race.

“This decision is not borne out of pressure or personal interest. Rather, it is a conscious choice to place the interest of Osun State above personal ambition. Having carefully assessed the situation, I believe Governor Ademola Adeleke deserves another term to consolidate the progress his administration has recorded.

“Accordingly, I hereby declare my full support for the re-election of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, and I call on all my supporters, members of the Allied People’s Movement and the good people of Osun State to join me in supporting his re-election.

“This decision is about the future of Osun State. Politics should always serve the people, and today, I have chosen the path that I believe will best advance peace, stability, development and the collective interest of our state.”

This political shift unfolds amid an intense atmosphere across Osun as the weekend ballot approaches, promising a highly competitive electoral contest.

While Adeleke eyes a return to office, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji stands among his primary rivals.

The campaign season has experienced heightened political friction and controversies regarding fiery statements, triggering massive security mobilizations ahead of voting day.

Over 25,000 security operatives have been deployed to maintain order, while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that operational arrangements are fully finalized.

With a total of 14 contenders cleared for the ballot, eligible voters spanning the 30 local government areas will ultimately decide the state’s leadership for the next four years.