Osun election: Adeleke leads Oyebamiji

Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party has established an early lead in the closely contested Osun State governorship election, outpacing his All Progressives Congress (APC) rival, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji. As of late last night, with results from 87.5 percent of the polling units uploaded, Adeleke had secured over 439,132 votes, while Oyebamiji trailed with 379,255 votes.

The election witnessed a strong voter turnout across the state. However, the process was significantly disrupted by instances of vote-buying and pockets of violence, despite assurances of a peaceful exercise. These disruptions occurred in various locations throughout Osun State, casting a shadow over the electoral process.

Results from key polling units revealed shifts in political allegiances. Governor Adeleke secured his own polling unit at Ward 02, PU 009, Abogunde Compound, Ede North LGA, with 421 votes, sparking jubilation among his supporters. He also won the polling unit of former Osun Deputy Governor, Senator Iyiola Omisore, who had previously declared support for Oyebamiji. Furthermore, Adeleke's victory extended to the polling unit of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Okuku, Odo-Otin LGA, where he garnered 125 votes compared to the APC's 85.

Conversely, the APC's Oyebamiji achieved a significant win at the polling unit of former Osun Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, in Ilesa. The APC secured 256 votes at this unit, decisively defeating Adeleke, who received 43 votes. Aregbesola, now the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had publicly supported Oyebamiji. Meanwhile, the Imole Campaign Council (ICC) raised concerns about an alleged plot by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the election inconclusive, a move they claim is being pushed by APC governors and leaders to thwart Adeleke's anticipated victory.