Senator Iyiola Omisore, a former deputy governor of Osun State, has vehemently asserted that Governor Ademola Adeleke cannot circumvent established political processes and gain entry into the All Progressives Congress (APC) simply through his association with Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State. Omisore emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement and adherence to party structure, stating that Adeleke would have to begin his journey from the ground up if he truly desired to join the APC in Osun State.
Omisore’s remarks were made during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, where he addressed the speculation surrounding Adeleke’s potential defection to the APC. Dismissing the notion that Adeleke’s connection with Abiodun could facilitate his entry into the Osun APC, Omisore highlighted the localized nature of politics and the necessity of understanding and respecting the existing party structure within the state. He argued that seeking external support from another state governor would not suffice in bypassing the established procedures and protocols of the Osun APC.
Furthermore, Omisore attributed Adeleke’s interest in joining the APC to his apprehension about securing a second term as governor. He suggested that Adeleke’s pursuit of an alternative political platform stemmed from a perceived lack of confidence in his ability to win reelection under his current party affiliation. This assertion implies a strategic calculation on Adeleke’s part, aiming to enhance his chances of retaining power by aligning himself with the APC, which holds significant sway in Osun State.
Omisore, however, did not entirely dismiss the possibility of Adeleke joining the APC. He acknowledged Adeleke’s constitutional right to associate with any political party of his choosing, but reiterated that the process must be conducted through the appropriate channels and in accordance with the party’s established rules and procedures. He stressed the importance of engaging with the local party structure and building relationships with grassroots members, emphasizing that a top-down approach through external alliances would not be acceptable.
Omisore’s pronouncements shed light on the internal dynamics within the Osun State political landscape, particularly the complexities of party affiliation and the importance of grassroots engagement. His emphasis on local political structures underscores the significance of building relationships and fostering support within the community, rather than relying solely on external connections or high-level endorsements. This reinforces the notion that political success often hinges on the ability to connect with and mobilize local constituents.
In essence, Omisore’s message to Governor Adeleke is clear: if he wishes to join the APC, he must do so through the proper channels, starting from the grassroots level and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the party’s principles and local structure. This statement not only clarifies the APC’s stance on Adeleke’s potential defection but also serves as a reminder of the importance of grassroots engagement and adherence to established political processes in the Nigerian political system. It also highlights the ongoing political maneuvering and power struggles within Osun State as various actors position themselves for upcoming elections.
