The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly refuted claims that Governor Ademola Adeleke has defected to the party, describing the rumours as entirely baseless.
In a statement released on Sunday, APC spokesperson Kola Olabisi branded the reports as “a lie from the pit of hell,” urging the public to disregard what he called deliberate misinformation spread by Adeleke’s camp to create the illusion of political alignment with the ruling party.
“At no point has Governor Adeleke joined, or even contemplated joining, the APC,” the statement asserted. “There is absolutely no pressure from the Presidency or any faction of our party encouraging such a move.”
The party emphasized that any genuine defection would follow due process and involve consultation with key figures such as APC National Chairman Ali Dalori, former Osun Governor Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, and Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal.
While acknowledging that some individuals close to Adeleke may be speculating about a potential defection, the APC dismissed such notions as mere wishful thinking.
It pointed to both procedural and constitutional challenges that would complicate any party switch.
The statement also took aim at members of Adeleke’s inner circle for stoking the rumours online, particularly suggestions that President Bola Tinubu is actively courting the governor.
The APC labeled these claims as false and self-serving, meant to enhance Adeleke’s political image.
“It’s quite ironic,” the statement concluded, “that those who once fiercely opposed our party now appear desperate to associate with it.”