Governor Ademola Adeleke has revealed that his move to join the All Progressives Congress was allegedly stalled by former governor Gboyega Oyetola, saying internal resistance within the party prevented his defection.
Speaking on the matter, Adeleke said he believed President Bola Tinubu would have required all parties to sit at a roundtable if there was genuine intent to bring him into the APC fold.
He described President Tinubu as a unifying figure, but argued that political realities on the ground made his entry into the ruling party difficult.
“My friends in the APC told me that the President has said he will not rig elections for anyone, regardless of party affiliation or personal relationships,” Adeleke said.
He also referenced past electoral dynamics in Osun State, claiming that Senator Fadahunsi’s victory at the time was influenced by his support, while challenging the current political strength of rival camps.
According to him, attempts to gain access to the President in Abuja were also hindered, which he believes affected discussions around his possible defection.
“The President is the father of all. If he had truly wanted me in the APC, he would have called all parties involved, including Gboyega Oyetola, to a roundtable discussion,” he added.
Adeleke maintained that politics should be driven by fairness and popularity at the ballot box, rather than internal party blocking or personal rivalries.
The remarks highlight lingering tensions within Osun’s political landscape and offer fresh insight into behind-the-scenes negotiations that shaped party alignments ahead of future elections.
