The political landscape in Osun State, Nigeria, is already buzzing with activity as the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches. Women leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the ten local government areas comprising the Osun West Senatorial District have thrown their weight behind the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, for a second term. This significant endorsement underscores the growing momentum of Adeleke’s reelection bid and reflects the broader political dynamics within the state. The women leaders cited Adeleke’s performance in office, particularly his focus on issues impacting women and children, as the primary reason for their support. Their declaration signals a strategic move by the PDP to consolidate its base and solidify its campaign strategy well in advance of the election.
The endorsement, voiced by Osun PDP Women Leader Alice Otunla, came during a meeting held in Iwo. Otunla, speaking on behalf of the women’s wing of the party, emphasized Adeleke’s achievements in various sectors, including infrastructure development, economic growth, improvements in healthcare and education, advancements in agriculture, and human capital development. She portrayed Adeleke’s leadership as inclusive and responsive to the needs of women, framing his reelection as a reward for his performance. This early endorsement serves as a clear message to other potential contenders within and outside the PDP, signaling the party’s intent to maintain a united front and avoid internal divisions that could jeopardize their chances in the upcoming election.
The women leaders’ commitment to Adeleke’s reelection campaign extends beyond mere endorsement. They expressed their readiness to actively work towards his victory, highlighting the crucial role women play in mobilizing voters and influencing electoral outcomes. This proactive approach underscores the importance of grassroots mobilization in Nigerian politics and the recognition that women constitute a significant voting bloc. Their commitment to canvassing support for Adeleke within their communities demonstrates a strategic understanding of the importance of direct engagement with voters. This early mobilization also allows the PDP to build a strong foundation for their campaign, giving them a head start in shaping public perception and garnering support.
The endorsement by the Osun West PDP Women Leaders received strong support from other key figures within the party. Osun West PDP Senatorial Chairman Adesoye Oyetunde applauded the women’s unity and strategic mobilization efforts, acknowledging their historical contribution to the party’s electoral successes. This recognition of women’s political influence reinforces their importance within the PDP and highlights the party’s efforts to leverage their strength in the upcoming election. Oyetunde’s remarks also underscored the party’s focus on unity and strategic planning, emphasizing the importance of a cohesive campaign message and effective grassroots mobilization.
State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ayo Fadeyi-Awolowo, further amplified the call for continued engagement and empowerment initiatives. While expressing confidence in Adeleke’s prospects for reelection, she cautioned against complacency, emphasizing the need to expand the party’s reach and empower more women ahead of the 2026 polls. This proactive approach underscores the understanding that electoral victory requires sustained effort and ongoing engagement with the electorate. Fadeyi-Awolowo’s emphasis on women’s empowerment also highlights the party’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the importance of women’s participation in the political process.
In essence, the early endorsement of Governor Adeleke by the PDP Women Leaders in Osun West Senatorial District sets the stage for a potentially intense gubernatorial race in 2026. It signals the party’s commitment to retaining power and highlights the strategic importance they place on women’s political engagement. The women leaders’ proactive approach, combined with the support of key party figures, underlines the PDP’s determination to build a strong campaign foundation and mobilize a broad base of support for Adeleke’s reelection bid. The focus on issues affecting women and children, coupled with the emphasis on empowerment initiatives, further underscores the party’s efforts to connect with voters and build a compelling narrative for Adeleke’s second term. This early mobilization and strategic positioning sets the tone for the upcoming political battle and underscores the dynamic nature of electoral politics in Osun State.
