In a move that’s sure to spark debate, Ademola Adeleke has been officially cleared as the sole aspirant for the Accord party’s governorship primary in Osun State, setting the stage for a potentially uncontested race. But here’s where it gets controversial: just days after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Adeleke has not only joined Accord but has also secured his position as the party’s undisputed candidate for the 2026 polls. Is this a strategic masterstroke or a missed opportunity for intra-party competition?
On December 10, 2025, the screening committee of the Accord party, chaired by Ibe Thankgod, announced that Governor Adeleke had met all nomination requirements. In a statement, Thankgod emphasized, ‘The committee has cleared Governor Adeleke as the sole aspirant and completed all necessary documentation with relevant authorities.’ This decision was further confirmed by Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke’s spokesperson, who revealed that the governor had received a certificate of clearance, solidifying his candidacy.
But this is the part most people miss: Adeleke’s swift transition from the PDP to Accord raises questions about the dynamics of Nigerian politics. The governor justified his move by citing the need to continue his administration’s ‘delivery of good governance and democratic dividends,’ which he claims have garnered both local and international acclaim. Yet, critics might argue that this shift could limit democratic choice within the Accord party itself. Does Adeleke’s unopposed candidacy strengthen his position, or does it undermine the spirit of competitive primaries?
Adeleke’s spokesperson assured that the governor is ‘ready to responsibly unfurl the party’s banner for victory in the 2026 polls.’ However, as the political landscape heats up, this development invites a crucial question: Is the lack of competition within Accord a sign of unity or a symptom of deeper political maneuvering? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your opinions in the comments below and let’s spark a conversation!
