ANALYSIS: Six factors that helped Adeleke win #OsunDecides2026

Governor Ademola Adeleke has secured a second term in office, winning the Osun State governorship election against his main opponent, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Adeleke, who switched to the Accord Party for this election after winning on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform in 2022, garnered 511,067 votes compared to Oyebamiji's 444,815.

Premium Times analyzes six factors that contributed to Adeleke's victory. A significant factor was the electorate's assessment of his first term. Adeleke's administration focused on clearing inherited salary and pension arrears, improving workers' welfare, and undertaking infrastructure projects. The government reported rehabilitating roads, healthcare centers, and schools, alongside establishing the University of Ilesa.

Furthermore, the state's financial health reportedly improved under Adeleke. Osun's domestic debt decreased by over 43%, and external debt fell from $91.78 million to $75.14 million. The internally generated revenue also saw a substantial rise, from N27.72 billion in 2023 to N54.7 billion in 2024. While the APC criticized Adeleke's record, the governor's tangible achievements appeared to resonate with the majority of voters.

Improved workers' welfare was highlighted as a key advantage. Adeleke's performance was measured against the experiences of workers under his predecessors, particularly Rauf Aregbesola, during whose tenure modulated salaries were implemented due to financial crises. This comparison likely bolstered Adeleke's standing among state employees.