In a recent address to the press, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke delivered a forceful rebuttal to former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who had publicly pledged to unseat Adeleke in the 2026 elections. Adeleke asserted that the people of Osun have not forgotten the “sordid and evil records” of Aregbesola’s administration from 2010 to 2018 .
🔹 Acalmating Legacy of Debt and Hardship
Governor Adeleke, speaking through his spokesman Rasheed Olawale, heavily criticized Aregbesola’s tenure—highlighting mounting state debt, the crippling policy of half-salaries, and the controversy over the “Opon Imo” learning tablets. He described that period as “the worst in Osun history,” accusing Aregbesola’s government of imposing unnecessary suffering and financial ruin on public servants and pensioners .
🔹 “2026 Will Be Payback Time”
Signaling his intent, Adeleke declared that 2026 would be a pivotal moment when the electorate will voice their verdict on Aregbesola’s legacy. He affirmed his current administration has settled 28 months of back pay, disbursed nearly ₦60 billion in pension debts, and is committed to restoring full salaries—measures framed as direct responses to Aregbesola’s disruptive policies .
🔹 Political Undercurrents & Strategic Positioning
This outspoken statement follows growing discourse around grassroots mobilization by Aregbesola’s Omoluabi Progressives, seen as a potential challenger to Adeleke’s reelection bid . However, only today did Adeleke clarify that the fight would be framed not just in political terms—but as repayment for institutional damage borne by civil servants and ordinary Osun citizens.
🔹 What This Means for 2026
1. Adeleke is reframing the political narrative to make the Osun ballot a referendum on past administrative failures, rather than policy differences alone.
2. Aregbesola’s active campaigning, coupled with his new party ambitions, may intensify competition across party lines—potentially setting the stage for a three-way battle in 2026.
3. Expect continued rhetoric focused on legacy, accountability and public welfare as both camps intensify engagement with voters.
Governor Adeleke's public rebuke of Aregbesola is strategic—highlighting past fractures and financial burdens as moral justification for seeking reelection. His message is clear: the next contest will not only decide who governs Osun, but also pass judgment on who caused the hurt—and who repaired it.
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