The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind Governor Ademola Adeleke, pledging unwavering loyalty and support for whatever political direction he chooses. This development comes amid mounting speculation of Adeleke’s potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

At a high-level caucus meeting held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, the Osun PDP passed a unanimous vote of confidence in Governor Adeleke. According to a communique issued after the meeting and signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, “Osun PDP leadership caucus today passed a vote of confidence on Governor Ademola Adeleke, unanimously supporting any decision the Governor takes on the growing rumour of defection to another political party.”

The meeting, attended by stakeholders across party and government structures, including members of the National and State Assemblies, top government officials, PDP state executives, elders of the party, and members of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), mandated Adeleke to continue consultations with all stakeholders locally and nationally.

The communique stated, “The leaders who praised the Governor’s leadership and performance in office mandated him to continue consultations with all stakeholders locally and nationally.” It also noted that the governor has not yet made a final decision, with the meeting recognizing that “the Governor is still consulting on next lines of action.”

The PDP state leadership resolved to follow Adeleke wherever he goes, signaling a strong show of solidarity. “In the communique, the PDP state leadership resolved to follow Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke wherever he goes,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, APC leaders are reportedly considering accepting Adeleke into the party, viewing his potential defection as a strategic advantage that could tilt control of Osun State in their favor. However, Osun APC Chairman, Sooko Taju Lawal, claimed, “We are not aware or involved in the process of Adeleke joining APC.”

Adeleke has since denied rumors of his defection, affirming his loyalty to the PDP. “I assure the good people of Osun that I remain part and parcel of the PDP family. I am not defecting to any party,” he declared.