The governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has come under fire from the All Progressives Congress (APC) for his recent criticisms of President Bola Tinubu, with party officials accusing him of displaying fear of defeat and confusion ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The APC has urged Adeleke to focus on issue-based campaigning rather than attacking the president, warning that such behavior could signal desperation (businessday.ng).

Adeleke, who is running as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate, reportedly made remarks against Tinubu and other officials, which the APC campaign council has labeled as “reckless and seditious” (thecable.ng). Some analysts suggest these comments reflect growing anxiety within the ruling party about the upcoming election. Meanwhile, Adeleke has also warned Tinubu that the people of Osun will not accept any attempt to rig the election, emphasizing the need for a free and fair process (championnews.com.ng).

The APC has accused Adeleke of engaging in political persecution, claiming that his attacks on Tinubu are part of a broader strategy to deflect attention from his own shortcomings (dailypost.ng). However, Adeleke’s supporters argue that his criticisms are a legitimate expression of concern over the state’s political future. As the election approaches, tensions between the governor and his party continue to escalate.

Sources
  • Business News Nigeria — APC to Adeleke: Stop accusing Tinubu, embrace issue-based campaign
  • Punch Newspapers — Osun poll: Stop blaming Tinubu for your troubles, APC tells Adeleke
  • Vanguard News — Osun Election: Adeleke’s outburst shows fear of defeat, confusion — Oyebamiji
  • TheCable — Osun APC campaign council accuses Adeleke of making ‘seditious’ remarks against Tinubu
  • THISDAYLIVE — APC to Adeleke: Your Attack on Tinubu Shows You’re ‘A Desperate Man Facing Defeat’
  • Champion Newspapers LTD — Osun 2026: We won’t accept rigging, Adeleke tells Tinubu
  • Daily Post Nigeria — Osun 2026: APC rejects Gov Adeleke’s political persecution allegations