The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended its 2026 governorship primaries. These primaries were initially set for December 2, 2025. The party cited a worsening leadership crisis at the national level.
Hon. Sunday Bisi, the State Chairman, disclosed this on Monday. He spoke during a press briefing held in Osogbo. Bisi explained that internal turmoil in the national hierarchy caused the issue. This turmoil made it impossible to proceed with statutory primary processes.
Adeleke’s Position and Primary Requirements
Bisi clarified that Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke had met all participation requirements. According to the chairman, Governor Adeleke purchased and submitted the necessary forms. He did so within the stipulated window. Adeleke was screened and cleared without reservations. He also received a Certificate of Clearance, following party procedures.
The chairman stated that the crisis escalated significantly. This was marked by “the suspension and counter-suspension of key national officers.” This situation crippled the party’s ability to conduct crucial congresses. These included ad-hoc ward and local government congresses. They were scheduled for November 24 and 29.
“These are the very congresses where delegates to the primaries are elected,” Bisi stressed. He added that several disputes are now before courts across the country. He noted that holding a proper primary is impossible without delegates. “It has become inevitable, indeed unavoidable, that the PDP governorship primaries earlier slated for Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, can no longer hold as scheduled,” the state party chairman declared.
Governor Adeleke May Withdraw from Race
Bisi also made a significant revelation. He stated that Governor Adeleke might withdraw from the race if the crisis persists. Adeleke is currently the only aspirant who purchased and submitted nomination forms. According to the chairman, “The information at my disposal is that Governor Ademola Adeleke may not, any longer, be interested in seeking the nomination of the PDP for the 2026 Osun Gubernatorial Election.” This would happen unless “a resolution recognized by INEC is reached within the INEC timeline.”
Efforts Towards Resolution
Despite these challenges, the PDP chairman assured party members of ongoing resolution efforts. “We assure you that the leadership of the party, both at the state and national levels, is working round the clock,” he said. They aim to ensure “a lawful, workable, and timely resolution to the challenges at hand.”
Bisi described the press briefing as part of the party’s commitment to transparency. It aimed to keep Osun residents informed about the latest developments.