The Osun State chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has publicly committed to challenging Governor Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming 2026 governorship election. This declaration was made during a significant event where the party inaugurated its offices in several local government areas, including Ila, Boripe, and Ifelodun. The NNPP’s stance indicates a strategic move to position itself as a viable political alternative, capitalizing on existing dissatisfaction with the current ruling party and the economic challenges facing the nation. The local NNPP leadership expressed their optimism about the party’s prospects in the forthcoming election, signaling their belief in gaining political ground in Osun State.
Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, the NNPP Chairman in Osun, articulated the party’s confidence by highlighting that the ongoing economic hardship is adversely affecting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the national level and that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is struggling to deliver effective governance in Osun. His remarks reflect a calculated approach to frame the upcoming election as a contest between the dissatisfaction of the electorate and the shortcomings of the current administration. The NNPP’s leadership believes that the confluence of these factors creates a favorable environment for their party to disrupt the status quo and potentially end Adeleke’s tenure as governor.
During the launch event, Odeyemi was supported by prominent figures from other states, reinforcing the idea that the NNPP is building a united front against the existing political powers. The presence of Ekiti State’s NNPP Chairman, Edward Ayeni, and Ogun State’s NNPP Publicity Secretary, Omokehinde Olowu, emphasized that the party is not only focused on local dynamics but is also seeking solidarity among party members across states. Odeyemi called on party members to stay committed and united in the face of the upcoming electoral challenges, suggesting that the NNPP holds a collective vision for political change rooted in grassroots engagement and effective communication.
In contrast, the Osun state chapter of the PDP reacted swiftly to the NNPP’s declarations, dismissing their promises and predictions as mere bluster lacking substance. Oladele Bamiji, the PDP’s Director of Media and Publicity, characterized the NNPP’s statements as “baseless,” attributing them to a desire to appease party sponsors rather than reflect any genuine assessment of the political landscape. The PDP’s retort points to its belief that Governor Adeleke’s accomplishments will carry significant weight in securing his reelection, dismissing the NNPP’s assertions as lacking credibility and a serious threat to the incumbent governor.
Bamiji further argued that the people of Osun have been witnessing unprecedented progress under Adeleke’s administration, which he believes sets a strong foundation for reelection. His comments underscore a confidence in the achievements of the current administration, portraying the party’s governance as capable and responsive to the needs of the populace. This exchange underscores the competitive nature of the political landscape in Osun State, with each party striving to assert its influence and appeal to voters ahead of the critical 2026 election.
As the political dynamics unfold in Osun State, the NNPP’s ambitions and the PDP’s defense of its governance will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the narrative leading up to the election. The contest will likely reflect a broader struggle between emerging political alternatives represented by parties like the NNPP and established powers such as the PDP and APC. Observers of the political scene will be keen to watch how each party adapts their strategies in response to the evolving concerns of the electorate, particularly as issues like economic performance and governance efficacy become central to voter decision-making as the 2026 election approaches.
