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In a sharp escalation of political tensions ahead of Osun State’s 2026 gubernatorial race, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s campaign team has accused the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of abandoning substantive policy debates in favor of intimidation tactics and propaganda.
With the August 15, 2026 election approaching, the Imole Campaign Council (TICC) claims the APC has resorted to what it describes as “cheap blackmail” and “empty intimidation theatrics” rather than presenting alternative policy platforms to voters.
Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the Adeleke campaign, issued a statement Thursday alleging the opposition is attempting to weaponize anti-corruption agencies for political gain. He specifically referenced petitions reportedly filed against him by APC members with federal agencies, characterizing these actions as desperate political maneuvers.
“Only people who are intellectually shallow and morally bankrupt will display their desperation using the EFCC, as though the EFCC is not a government institution doing its lawful job within the confines of the law,” Olajengbesi stated.
The campaign spokesman emphasized that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should not be treated as a political instrument, comparing it to other public service agencies like Road Safety or Fire Service. “It is only political jesters who have completely lost direction and hope that will turn ‘EFCC is coming’ into a campaign slogan,” he added.
Political tensions in Osun have been building since Adeleke, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), defeated then-incumbent Governor Gboyega Oyetola of the APC in 2022. That contest was notably close and contentious, setting the stage for what analysts predict will be an intensely fought rematch in 2026.
The Adeleke campaign contends that while the governor’s reelection strategy centers on his governance record and voter engagement, the opposition, including APC gubernatorial candidate Bola Oyebamiji, is allegedly resorting to rumor-mongering and intimidation to instill fear among government supporters.
Olajengbesi expressed confidence that Osun voters would not be swayed by what he termed “empty propaganda” or alleged misuse of federal connections. “The people of Osun State are politically conscious and cannot be intimidated,” he asserted.
The statement further alleged that former Governor Oyetola continues to leverage federal influence to intimidate political opponents. Olajengbesi pointedly reminded the opposition that “elections cannot be won through blackmail and that the EFCC will not vote on Election Day.”
In defending the Adeleke administration’s performance, the campaign highlighted infrastructure projects, improvements in workers’ welfare, education, healthcare, and economic development initiatives across the state. Olajengbesi characterized the APC’s criticisms as “empty noise of a rejected political party.”
The campaign statement also leveled fresh accusations against APC leadership, claiming former Governor Oyetola still faces questions about the management of a $20 million primary healthcare grant during his administration. Additionally, it referenced allegations involving APC Campaign Director-General Wole Oke regarding reported extortion and bribery-related matters in the National Assembly.
As of press time, the Osun APC had not issued an official response to these allegations.
The escalating rhetoric underscores the high stakes in Osun’s upcoming gubernatorial contest. Political observers note that the state, with its agricultural economy and strategic location in southwestern Nigeria, has historically been a battleground between the country’s major political parties. The election is expected to serve as a bellwether for the broader political climate ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Local political analysts suggest that as the campaign intensifies, voters will likely witness increased scrutiny of Adeleke’s governance record juxtaposed against the APC’s alternative vision for the state’s development.
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8 Comments
While I’m skeptical of the APC’s alleged tactics, I also want to hear the other side’s perspective. Substantive policy debates are crucial, and I hope the candidates can find a way to move the conversation in that direction.
I’m curious to learn more about the specific policy disagreements driving this conflict. It’s important for voters to understand the substantive differences between the Adeleke campaign and the APC. Transparency is key in a healthy democracy.
I agree, the policy details and visions for Osun’s future should be the focus. Mudslinging and accusations rarely help the public make an informed decision.
Interesting development in the Osun gubernatorial race. It’s concerning to hear accusations of political propaganda rather than substantive policy debates. Voters deserve a transparent discussion of the issues from all candidates.
Using anti-corruption agencies for political gain is very troubling, if true. The public deserves to know the facts behind these allegations. Hopefully both sides can focus on the real concerns of Osun residents.
This sounds like a classic case of political mudslinging. While I understand the desire to win, the Osun people would be better served by clear policy platforms from all candidates. Resorting to propaganda erodes public trust.
The Osun election is an important one, and I hope both sides can rise above partisan politics to have a thoughtful discussion of the issues. Voters deserve to hear concrete plans, not just attacks.
Accusations of propaganda are serious. However, I reserve judgment until I see more evidence from both camps. The Osun electorate deserves an open and honest discussion of the real challenges facing the state.