Osun Polls: Governor Adeleke Endorses Tinubu Amidst Political Maneuvering

In a move that has stirred political waters ahead of his own re-election, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has publicly declared his support for President Bola Tinubu's second term bid. This endorsement is particularly notable as President Tinubu is not up for re-election until next year, and Adeleke himself faces his own gubernatorial contest next week.

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Our own son, father and leader, deserves the support of Osun electorate.

Adeleke referred to Tinubu as "Our own son, father and leader," emphasizing that as the governor of the president's "ancestral birthplace," he felt compelled to offer his support. "I need no persuasion to act as I have declared repeatedly, our endorsement of Mr President," Adeleke stated, highlighting his commitment despite the timing.

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I am the governor of the ancestral birthplace of Mr. President. How can I have my own in the saddle and think twice before embracing him? I need no persuasion to act as I have declared repeatedly, our endorsement of Mr President.

This declaration has not appeased some within the All Progressives Congress (APC), who are reportedly pushing for a win in Osun State to bolster Tinubu's re-election prospects next year. APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, expressed unwavering confidence, stating, "We must win Osun and nothing will stop us." He announced the inauguration of a 276-member campaign council, headed by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.

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We must win Osun and nothing will stop us.

Yilwatda characterized the campaign team as "political heavyweights," likening the opposition to a "Keke (bicycle)" unable to withstand the mobilized strength of the APC. His exuberant declaration underscores the high stakes the ruling party places on the Osun gubernatorial election, viewing it as a crucial test for the president's broader political ambitions.

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These are political heavyweights; it is like a trailer facing a Keke (bicycle). I do not know how the political party standing against us in Osun can withstand the strength of these people who are going there to mobilise and win the election.