Adeleke’s People-Powered Mandate: Why Osun’s Progress Can’t Be Derailed by Defections - Muniru Raji

 

Hon. Munirudeen Adebayo Raji, Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Pol

itical Affairs, has dismissed fears surrounding recent defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), affirming that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s mandate is rooted in the unwavering support of the Osun masses.

Speaking during a popular current affairs podcast hosted by Mukhtar Ajelogbon of Osun Reporters online TV, Muniru praised the governor’s developmental achievements and political resilience, noting that every administration before Adeleke only did its best, but since Adeleke’s emergence, Osun has witnessed what he described as “a giant stride in development.”

“I don’t see abandoned projects in Osun today,” he said.

“Any uncompleted ones are already designed for completion. The Adeleke administration is focused, responsive, and intentional about delivering results.”

He addressed the defection of some PDP lawmakers, attributing their decisions to personal ambitions rather than collective representation.

 “In 2018 and again in 2022, it was the people who stood with Governor Adeleke,” Adedibu emphasized. “Back then, his opponents had all the advantages, councilors, seven House of Reps members, and two of the three senators. Yet, it was the people’s mandate that prevailed.”

The Osogbo born grassroots politician added that while some defectors might claim to be representing their constituents, true representation requires carrying everyone along within the party structure.

 “They were given national assignments by the people, not to pursue selfish interests,” he said.

Muniru reaffirmed that Governor Adeleke remains a staunch member of the PDP and will seek re-election under the same platform. Internal issues within the party, such as conflicting secretaries, have now been resolved, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) certifying the party's official choice.

 “Governor Adeleke has not defected to APC, nor has he held talks with ADC,” Adedibu clarified.

In a striking revelation, Adeleke's Adviser on Political noted that even President Bola Ahmed Tinubu acknowledged Adeleke’s widespread acceptance and performance.

 “The President reportedly said that if Adeleke contests again, he would still win, based on the impressive reports he’s received about Osun. In fact, he even wished Adeleke were contesting under his own party. But due to political differences, such a partnership remains impractical,” he said.

Muniru concluded by reaffirming that the Adeleke administration remains people-driven, development-focused, and determined to leave no one behind, regardless of political maneuvers or opposition propaganda.