Governor Ademola Adeleke officially secured the Accord Party’s governorship ticket on Wednesday. He emerged as the candidate after a primary election held in Osogbo. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other observers monitored the process.

Governor Adeleke received 145 votes. Five votes were voided during the exercise.

As the sole aspirant, Governor Adeleke accepted his nomination. He expressed confidence in securing victory for the Accord Party in the 2026 elections. He cited his administration’s achievements and the widespread goodwill of the people as key factors.

He also used the occasion to unveil an updated five-point agenda for the 2026 elections. Key areas include integrated citizens and workers’ welfare. He plans infrastructure consolidation for economic prosperity. Increased agro-industrial expansion for youth empowerment is another priority. The agenda also covers innovations for health, education, and social care. Finally, it aims for an improved business environment for job creation.

Adeleke’s Commitment to Progress and Continuity

Governor Adeleke declared, “We are launching the battle for continuous progress today. This includes good governance and democratic dividends for all. My candidacy ensures the golden movement of development shines across our state. We vow never to stop serving our people.”

He emphasized a commitment to moving forward. “We will never return to the dark days,” he stated. Instead, the focus is on advancing towards modernization. He noted that Osun endured many failed promises for a long time. “In the last three years, we have fulfilled our people’s yearnings and aspirations,” he added. “Ours is a government that delivers on its promises.”

Adeleke then challenged his potential opponents for the upcoming polls. “I urge them to campaign based on their past records,” he said. He questioned their achievements while in government. “What did they deliver to Osun State residents?” he asked. “How did they manage the state? What legacy did they leave behind?”

He asserted that past administrations “failed the people, their party, and even themselves.” “Today, the people reject them,” he added. He claimed that even their own party members are now against them.

“I am proud to contest based on my three-year record of achievements,” he affirmed. He stated that his administration outperforms the opposition. This is despite facing harassment and blockages. “I have raised governance standards beyond mere talk and deceit,” he said. “Our achievements are visible and impactful for the people.”

Documented Achievements and Future Vision

He then listed specific accomplishments. “Osun State improved from 33rd to 7th in national examination ratings under my leadership,” he highlighted. “This progress is undeniable.” He noted his government reduced Osun’s infrastructure deficit. It dropped from over 80 percent in 2022 to over 40 percent by 2025. Many experts have confirmed this, he said. “We also paid over 40 percent of Osun’s inherited debt,” Adeleke stated. The Debt Management Office confirmed this figure. “Furthermore, we ranked first in primary healthcare access across the Southwest,” he added. This fact is widely known.

“Our governance approach proves that leadership can genuinely serve the people,” he asserted. “It shows that governance can be real and effective.” He emphasized his commitment to this principle. “I belong to leaders who prioritize meeting our people’s aspirations and needs,” he concluded.

Addressing Osun residents, he said the 2026 election is not only about past records. “We are introducing new innovations and packages,” he announced. These aim to elevate the people to new development levels. “I boldly confirm that I have largely delivered on my 2022 five-point agenda,” he stated.

Party Endorsement and Optimism

Barrister Maxwell Mgbudem, the Accord Party’s National Chairman, presented Governor Adeleke with his certificate of return. Mgbudem affirmed that the primary demonstrated Accord’s commitment to due process. He also praised the party’s internal democracy.

Mgbudem described Governor Adeleke’s emergence as divinely ordained. He expressed strong optimism about Adeleke’s re-election in 2026. Mgbudem believes he will win resoundingly.