Open Letter to Governor Ademola Adeleke

Letter to Governor Ademola Adeleke On His Reported Move To The APC.

Your Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke,

First, let me extend my warmest congratulations—not just on your hard-fought victory in the 2022 election, but also on the Supreme Court’s affirmation of your mandate. Like many indigenes of Osun State, I have watched with admiration as you’ve delivered on your promises through transformative projects and people-centered governance. You’ve silenced doubters, won over skeptics, and truly become the “People’s Governor”—a leader celebrated across the state for your dedication and accessibility.

This letter is not just from me but echoes the sentiments of countless Osun citizens who hold you in high esteem. Over the past two weeks, however, our state—and indeed, social media—has been gripped by rumors of your potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). While I recognize your constitutional right to freedom of association, and while politics often operates on the principle of “no permanent friends, only permanent interests,” I write not to dissuade you but to share the concerns of the very people who have stood by you.

Governor Adeleke, your popularity stems from the hope you’ve restored. Many see your emergence as divine intervention against the hardships they associate with the APC. Now, the idea of you joining that same party has left them heartbroken, wondering if their hope is being traded away. They fear a return to what they call the “old progressive era”—a past they believe your leadership had begun to redeem.

Various theories circulate about your motivations: economic pressures, the 2027 political calculations, or even internal PDP conflicts. Yet, none of these challenges strike me as insurmountable for a leader of your caliber. Your stellar performance speaks for itself—you don’t need a new party to secure a second term. Osun people would overwhelmingly re-elect you on your merits, regardless of party affiliation.

That said, if this move is indeed finalized—much like a footballer awaiting the completion of a transfer—I pray it ultimately serves the best interests of Osun’s ordinary citizens. Still, I urge you to consider a few critical implications:

The APC’s Existing Power Structure – The party’s stalwarts, including former Governor Oyetola, Senator Omisore, and others, were once your political adversaries. Integrating into their ranks will require deft negotiation. The customary practice of making a sitting governor the party leader could further strain relations. How will you navigate this?

Your Loyal Supporters – Defections rarely happen in isolation; they involve political trade-offs. Your administration’s strength lies in grassroots inclusion and equitable appointments. Will your current allies be sacrificed in this transition? Failing to balance their interests with your new alliances could alienate your base and tarnish not just your legacy but the Adeleke family’s future in politics.

The Question of Governance – Critics have accused your government of centralizing power in Ede, with key decisions made at the Adeleke residence in County Home rather than the party secretariat. The APC, a part with structure and owners, mostly operates and takes instruction from Burdillion. Can two power centers coexist smoothly? Are the Adeleke’s ready to give up the power they have achieved diligently and with good governance easily?

Your Excellency, I trust your advisors have weighed these risks. But I must caution you: the APC you are entering is a bigger devil than the PDP you’re leaving. Prepare for tougher battles ahead.

Whatever your decision, my prayer is that it brings prosperity to Osun State. You’ve earned our respect—may your next steps honor that trust.

With sincerity and hope,
Kabir Akinola
A Concerned Citizen of Osun State
Writes from Melbourne, Australia.