Oriontimes Political Newsroom| August 10, 2026
Adeleke cites performance and public support as reasons for re-election bid, urges voters to remain peaceful and vigilant
OSOGBO — August 10, 2026: The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi,
has offered prayers and traditional invocations for the success of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, in the forthcoming governorship election, while the monarch of Modakeke also expressed support for the governor’s bid for a second term.
The development occurred on Monday during Governor Adeleke’s engagements with traditional rulers in Ile-Ife and Modakeke, where the governor received commendations over projects executed by his administration in the ancient city and surrounding communities.
Speaking at his palace, the Ooni, who described himself as a father to all political interests, invoked divine blessings and prayed for mercy, grace, victory and survival for Governor Adeleke.
The monarch also commended the governor over infrastructure projects in Ile-Ife, particularly the Lagere Flyover and the dualised road leading to the palace.
“I thank the governor for this road, this bridge we have never seen before. The governor surprised us. The governor uplifted Ile-Ife. I am not a politician but we must appreciate any public official who performed well,” the Ooni said.
He further described Adeleke as a “good son”, while noting that traditional rulers have a responsibility to acknowledge what they consider positive developments in their domains.
At Modakeke, the town’s monarch similarly expressed support for Adeleke, stating that the community had received attention from the present administration on projects and requests presented by its stakeholders.
“We want more of you, Mr Governor. We want you to continue in office. Our people are ready to further show support for you,” the monarch said.
He added, “By God's grace, we will not see Amubo in Osun State,” apparently referring to the opposition candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO).
Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke used the engagements to appeal to his supporters to avoid confrontation with political opponents and instead express their preferences through the ballot.
The governor attributed his confidence in securing another term to what he described as his administration’s performance and widespread support among Osun residents.
“There are many reasons why the opposition are growing desperate. I have the numbers to win. I have the backing of mass of our people. Don’t fight them. Use your vote to speak,” Adeleke said.
He urged voters to remain vigilant during the election process, particularly during the distribution of electoral materials, voting and collation of results.
“Osun people have decided they need four more years of our good governance. Don’t fight them. But be vigilant. Monitor the distribution of materials. Follow the voting results to the collation centres,” the governor added.
The governor also urged residents to devote the final days before the election to protecting the integrity of the electoral process, describing the exercise as a civic responsibility.
The statements by the traditional rulers and the governor come ahead of the August 15 Osun governorship election, which is expected to feature a contest among candidates from several political parties.
While the comments from the monarchs constitute expressions of support for Governor Adeleke, voters will ultimately determine the outcome of the election through their ballots.
0 Comments
Join the conversation!
Have insights, corrections, or questions about this news story? Drop your comment below. We value civil, fact-based discussion.