Arise News Town Hall: Accord Candidate, Gov Adeleke, Says ‘If I Come Out as Independent Candidate, I’ll Still Win’

Osun State's Governor Ademola Adeleke, representing the Accord party, expressed certainty about his victory in the state's governorship election, even if he contests independently without any political party backing. During the Arise News Town Hall, he spoke about his political journey, his transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the accomplishments of his administration. Adeleke's confidence stemmed from his strong connection with the voters and the positive impact of his governance.

In Nigeria's electoral system, candidates typically run under political parties, but Adeleke expressed optimism that the country could eventually permit independent candidacies. He stated, "I can assure you, if we have an independent candidate, if I come out as an independent candidate, I will see a win" if an independent candidate, including himself, were to win the election.

Addressing his decision to leave the PDP, Adeleke clarified that it was not a betrayal but a response to the party's internal conflicts and uncertainties. He acknowledged that while he loved the PDP, it had become a source of daily struggles. He also rejected claims that his defection was due to the inability to secure the party's nomination, stating that the internal strife had made it unclear if the party could offer a viable platform for his re-election.

Adeleke highlighted his administration's achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, education, and security. The road network in Osun State, he said, had seen over 350 kilometers of completed roads, with an additional 160 kilometers under construction. Moreover, approximately 200 healthcare centers had been rehabilitated under his leadership.

Responding to the All Progressives Congress (APC) claims about the quality of roads built by his government, Adeleke dismissed the allegations, asserting that the projects had been vetted by qualified engineers. He also addressed rumors of increased security personnel presence, explaining that the Amotekun security outfit had been expanded with over 1,500 personnel, but he denied orchestrating a "militarization" of the state.

Despite the political tensions surrounding the election and his shift from the PDP, Adeleke emphasized that voters would ultimately decide the outcome. He expressed confidence that Osun residents would base their decision on the candidates' records and merits, not solely on the political affiliations. Adeleke stated, "It is the people," reaffirming his belief in the democratic process.