The deepening rivalry between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has escalated amid ongoing local government disputes, setting the stage for a fierce contest ahead of the 2026 governorship election. The recent Akure Court of Appeal ruling on February 10, 2025, which reinstated the local government chairmen and councillors elected under the previous APC administration, has intensified the struggle for power. The decision shook the political landscape, leading to violent clashes that have claimed at least six lives and left many injured, according to police reports. Both parties have since doubled down on their positions, with the PDP-led state government resisting the ruling while the APC pushes for its enforcement. The standoff has heightened tensions across Osun’s local government areas, as both sides seek political and legal backing to strengthen their claims. Corruption Allegations and Counterclaims Amid the ongoing feud, the Adeleke administration has launched a probe into the financial dealings of the previous APC-led government. The state government recently petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola’s administration of financial mismanagement, contract fraud, and money laundering. According to Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, a government-appointed review committee uncovered widespread irregularities, including the mismanagement of funds meant for renovating 320 primary healthcare centers and the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion through the Osun chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). The administration insists that the probe is an act of accountability, not political persecution.
“Unlike the APC, which thrives on impunity, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration is committed to transparency and the rule of law,” Alimi stated. However, the APC has dismissed the investigation as a politically motivated witch hunt. Party spokesperson Kola Olabisi accused the Adeleke government of targeting opposition figures to divert attention from its struggles, including its failure to maintain control over local government administration. “The government is now resorting to tarnishing the image of former Governor Oyetola with baseless accusations,” Olabisi said. “The contracts awarded under Oyetola’s tenure followed due process, and we challenge the state government to provide evidence to the contrary.” Civil Society Calls for Restraint With both parties locked in an increasingly hostile battle, civil society organizations have called for restraint. Wole Oladapo, convener of Nigerians for Good Governance, criticized the APC and PDP for prioritizing their political ambitions over the well-being of Osun residents. “What is happening in Osun is simply a dress rehearsal for the 2026 election,” Oladapo said. “Unfortunately, the people who do not engage in party politics are the ones suffering from this endless fight.” Similarly, Comrade Waheed Saka of Dialogue 365 warned that the escalating conflict could have long-term consequences. “Both parties must be civil in their approach,” he said. “Overheating the polity this far ahead of the election is not in anyone’s best interest.” As the battle for control rages on, Osun remains on edge, with political maneuvering and legal battles shaping what could be a defining contest in the state’s political history.
