Facebook Influencer's Criticism of Governor Adeleke Over Tinubu Endorsement Sparks Massive Backlash from Osun Supporters
A political commentary by Facebook influencer Akolade Ismahil Bello has ignited widespread debate on social media after he questioned Governor Ademola Adeleke's decision to publicly express support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
In a Facebook video that has continued to circulate online, Ismahil argued that Governor Adeleke's endorsement of President Tinubu at a politically sensitive period could weaken his electoral chances and alienate key opposition figures who might otherwise support his re-election bid.
According to the influencer:
«"Declaring your support for Tinubu in the middle of your election is also a sign of weakness. Other gladiators in the opposition party like PO (Peter Obi), AA (Atiku Abubakar) and Double Six (Governor Seyi Makinde) won't give you a helping hand. Who are your advisers, Governor Adeleke? I think your advisers are working for APC."»
The comments immediately triggered a flood of reactions from Facebook users, many of whom strongly disagreed with his assessment. While a handful of commenters agreed with the influencer's position, most of the visible reactions criticized his analysis, defended Governor Adeleke's political calculations, or argued that he failed to appreciate the realities of Osun politics.
One of the earliest responses sought to correct what the commenter considered a misunderstanding of the political situation.
«"Point of correction... Tinubu is from Osun State. Secondly, you are not in Osun State. If you were in Osun, you would understand the message the governor is passing to the people. Before making this kind of video, do proper research. I'm from Osun and living in Osun State."»
Several others accused the influencer of speaking from a partisan standpoint rather than offering an objective political analysis.
One user wrote:
«"You're saying nonsense. Just tell people you're an APC member."»
Another added:
«"Out of your lips. Just keep quiet if you don't have any reasonable message."»
Some comments were even more direct, describing the video as "useless," "talking out of sense," or "stupidly talk," reflecting the intensity of emotions often associated with political discussions on Nigerian social media.
Beyond the insults, many commenters attempted to explain why they believed Governor Adeleke's position was politically sensible.
One supporter wrote:
«"Our Governor Adeleke has exhibited the maturity expected of a highly responsible leader. Therefore, what he said is appropriate. Enough of this level of lawlessness."»
Another commenter described Adeleke as:
«"A symbol of humility to humanity."»
Several users argued that critics who are not residents of Osun State may not fully understand the challenges currently facing the state ahead of the election.
One Facebook user commented:
«"You can only understand if you are in his shoes. When all federal institutions are against you, it is not easy to withstand the pressure. But with the people of Osun behind the governor, he will return on August 15, 2026. Imole till 2030."»
Another echoed similar sentiments, saying:
«"I don't think this man is living in Osun State. If one of your relatives had been killed, you wouldn't be saying what you said. Do you know what we are passing through because of the incoming election? APC wants to hijack power by all means. Please fear God."»
Some commenters also referenced a popular Yoruba proverb to defend the governor's strategy.
One wrote:
«"Your argument is wrong. Have you forgotten the adage, 'Atohunrinwa o ni ogun o baluje, sugbon omo onilu ni ko ni gba.' APC wants to take over from Adeleke by force with the help of federal might."»
Others argued that Governor Adeleke's endorsement of President Tinubu should not be interpreted as political surrender but as a strategic acknowledgement that the President is an indigene of Osun State and occupies the nation's highest office.
One commenter wrote:
«"You don't have any wisdom. Tinubu is an Osun son. Go and sleep if you don't know what to say."»
Another questioned what realistic alternative the governor had under the prevailing political circumstances.
«"My brother, what do you think he can do when the APC has already hijacked the police to support them?"»
Another commenter argued that the governor was simply drawing national attention to what he feared could happen during the election.
«"The governor is warning the world about what could happen if APC rigs the Osun election. That can truncate Nigeria's democracy."»
Some users expressed disappointment with the influencer personally.
One wrote:
«"We are highly disappointed in you. You are selfish."»
Another questioned whether his comments could inflame tensions.
«"You are not serious. Do you want crisis in Osun State? The President is supposed to be the father of all political parties. Why has he not addressed the killings that occurred in the state?"»
Several reactions were emotional and included insults in both English and Yoruba, illustrating how deeply political loyalties shape online conversations. Such remarks reflected the frustrations of individual commenters and should not be taken as representative of the views of all Osun residents.
Governor Adeleke has, on several occasions, publicly stated that his support for President Tinubu is based on regional interest and respect for the office of the President rather than a change of political party. He has repeatedly described Tinubu as "our leader" and "our own son," while maintaining that his political contest remains with the Osun APC and not with the President personally. His administration has argued that cooperation with the Federal Government is necessary to attract development and maintain cordial intergovernmental relations.
As preparations continue for the Osun governorship election, political campaigns are expected to intensify, with social media remaining one of the major battlegrounds for competing narratives. Videos, commentaries and online debates continue to shape public discourse, although reactions on social media alone cannot be considered a definitive measure of public opinion.
The exchange between Akolade Ismahil Bello and his critics highlights how politically engaged many Nigerians have become online. Whether one agrees with the influencer's analysis or with Governor Adeleke's political approach, the debate underscores the passion surrounding the forthcoming Osun governorship election and the increasingly influential role of digital platforms in Nigeria's democratic process.
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