Ademola Adeleke: Profile of the Accord Party Governorship Candidate in Osun State

Party: Accord Party
Status: Incumbent Governor and major contender
Election: 2026 Osun State Governorship Election

Introduction

Ademola Adeleke is the incumbent Governor of Osun State and one of the three principal contenders identified in the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election.

Adeleke’s political career in Osun State includes service in the National Assembly and previous participation in the state’s governorship election. His 2026 campaign represents an attempt to secure a second term as governor, this time under the Accord Party.

Political Background

Adeleke first contested the Osun State governorship election in 2018 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he lost to APC candidate Gboyega Oyetola.

He returned to the governorship race in 2022 and defeated Oyetola, becoming Governor of Osun State. Before becoming governor, Adeleke represented Osun West in the Nigerian Senate after winning the senatorial seat in 2017.

For the 2026 election, Adeleke is no longer contesting under the PDP. According to the research document, he left the party amid its internal crisis and is seeking re-election under the Accord Party, with Kola Adewusi as his running mate.

Key Issues to Watch

Adeleke enters the election with the advantage of incumbency and an existing state government structure.

His campaign has placed significant emphasis on the record of his administration, particularly in areas including:

• Infrastructure
• Health
• Agriculture
• Governance

The central question for election observers is whether his record in office will translate into sufficient voter support for another term.

What Voters Should Consider

As an incumbent candidate, Adeleke’s record in office provides voters with an opportunity to assess his administration based on its policies, programmes and delivery during his first term.

For civic organisations and election observers, his performance and voter reception remain important areas of monitoring throughout the election process.

Conclusion

Ademola Adeleke enters the 2026 Osun governorship election as an incumbent seeking re-election under the Accord Party. His previous electoral experience, existing government structure and record in office make his candidacy one of the most significant to monitor.

Editorial note: This profile is intended for civic and electoral information purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of the candidate or political party.