The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship primary for the 2026 Osun election commenced on Tuesday in Osogbo despite internal disputes and the recent resignation of Governor Ademola Adeleke from the party.
INEC officials and a PDP national committee led by Humphrey Abba were present as the exercise began at 11:07 a.m., with delegates checking in before voting. Security at the venue was tight, with DSS, police, and NSCDC operatives stationed around the premises.
Confusion trailed the primary after factional directives from the party’s national leadership. While Theophilus Shan insisted the exercise would proceed, Umar Bature, representing another faction, announced a postponement.
Adeleke’s resignation—confirmed by his spokesperson—was conveyed in a December letter to his ward chairman, citing the national leadership crisis within the PDP. Party leaders in Osun said the governor may no longer seek the PDP ticket but noted that his position could change if the crisis is resolved in line with INEC-approved procedures.
Osun PDP Chairman Sunday Bisi earlier said the turmoil made it impossible to hold the primary as scheduled on December 2. According to INEC’s timetable for the August 8, 2026 governorship election, political parties have until December 15 to submit the names of their candidates.
