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OSUN PDP UNANIMOUSLY BACKS GOVERNOR ADELEKE, PLEDGES LOYALTY IN DEFECTION SPECULATION

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.

ASSAULT ON JOURNALIST BY SPEAKER’S SECURITY DETAIL SPARKS OUTRAGE IN OSUN STATE

A disturbing incident unfolded at the Ilesa Grammar School in Osun State on Friday, May 23, 2025, where PDP aspirant Omole Olusegun Omo-Osodi was allegedly assaulted by police and DSS officers attached to Speaker Wale Egbedun of the Osun State House of Assembly. PDP aspirant Omole Olusegun Omo-Osodi was at the school to cover the coronation reception of Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup Ajimoko III when the incident occurred. In a statement, Omo-Osodi claimed that the assault happened in the presence of Speaker Egbedun, who looked away as he was being beaten and his camera destroyed. The police also confiscated his Gionee M12 phone. Omo-Osodi has been experiencing severe back pain since the incident and is demanding justice. “I was pushed, beaten, and my camera was destroyed. Additionally, the police confiscated my Gionee M12 phone,” he recalled. Omo-Osodi is calling for immediate investigation and prosecution of the officers involved, impeachment proceedings against Speaker Egbedun, and compensation for the damages suffered. Specifically, he wants his Gionee M12 phone returned, a brand new Sony NXCAM camera, and N500 million in financial compensation for physical, emotional, and professional damages. The incident has sparked outrage, with many calling for accountability and an end to abuse of power. Omo-Osodi’s statement concluded, “This incident is a grave violation of my rights as a journalist and a citizen. I demand justice and accountability to ensure such abuse of power does not go unpunished.”

MATAWALLE URGES SECURITY AGENCIES TO MAINTAIN LAW AND ORDER IN OSUN STATE

By Kemi Oguns Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle, has expressed concern over the recent incidents in Osun State’s local government councils. In response, he has called upon security agencies to take proactive measures to maintain law and order in the state. Matawalle emphasized that the government is committed to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law across the nation. He highlighted the need to protect lives and properties, stating that the recent incident in Osun State, which resulted in loss of lives, should not be allowed to continue. The Minister urged all stakeholders, including political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations, to respect the rule of law and engage in constructive dialogue. He stressed the importance of collaboration in fostering a peaceful environment in Osun State, vital for the region’s progress and development. Matawalle also called on Osun State citizens to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. He assured them that the federal government is committed to ensuring their safety, with elevated security measures in place. The Minister reiterated that maintaining peace is paramount and that the government will support all efforts aimed at achieving stability and harmony within the state. Matawalle concluded by reaffirming the administration’s resolve to protect democratic rights and work towards a peaceful Nigeria, where justice prevails and the rule of law is upheld.