Two candidates in the Osun governorship election, Adebayo Adewale of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and Adedamola Adebayo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have withdrawn from the race and endorsed incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Adewale announced his withdrawal at a press conference on Thursday, saying the decision followed what he described as deep reflection and extensive consultations with party leaders, supporters and other stakeholders.
The APM candidate said his decision was not motivated by pressure or personal interest but was based on his desire to place the interest of Osun above his personal ambition.
He said he had carefully assessed the political situation in the state and concluded that Adeleke deserved another term to consolidate what he described as the achievements of his administration.
Adewale consequently declared his support for Adeleke’s re-election and urged his supporters, APM members and residents of Osun State to back the governor in Saturday’s election.
He said the decision was aimed at promoting peace, stability, development and the collective interest of the state.
Similarly, the PDP candidate, Adedamola Adebayo, also stepped down from the race and endorsed Adeleke ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
Adebayo, popularly known as Fryo, announced his decision during a press briefing in Osogbo, where he declared his support for Adeleke’s re-election.
He urged PDP members, supporters and the party’s structure to peacefully support Adeleke and work towards his emergence as governor until 2030.
The withdrawals came just hours before the Osun governorship election.
