Traditional Security Groups, Ethnic Communities Back Adeleke’s Second-Term Bid in Osun

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Traditional Security Groups, Ethnic Communities Back Adeleke’s Second-Term Bid in Osun

By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid received a boost on Tuesday as traditional security outfits and ethnic communities across Osun State endorsed him for a second term ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

The endorsement was announced at a gathering in Osogbo, where representatives of various groups expressed support for the governor, pledging to mobilise voters and safeguard the electoral process.

Speaking at the event, the convener, Chief Lukman Ayodeji, popularly known as Sango of Africa, said the endorsement was a reflection of the governor’s performance in office.

He noted that the groups came together to demonstrate that people would always support a leader who delivers.

“Governor Adeleke has restored confidence in governance through impactful projects. People are declaring their support because they have seen what he has done and want continuity,” Ayodeji said.

“He is truly ‘Imole’ (Light), judging by the transformation witnessed across the state.”

Also speaking, the representative of the Agbekoya group in Osun, Chief Aremu Abiodun, said members of the group had resolved to support Adeleke at the poll, citing improved security in the state.

“Because you protect the land, the land will protect you. Because you protect the people, the people will stand firmly behind you,” he said, urging members to mobilise voters in their communities. “We trust him, and we will reward him with our votes.”

The Association of Hunters in the state, led by Oba Ogunlade Oluwasanjo, also declared support for the governor, attributing their decision to his performance in office.“We are fully in support of Governor Adeleke and will vote en masse,” he said.

“We will not allow anyone to manipulate the election. The will of the people must be respected.”

The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), through its representative, Comrade Kazeem Oriade, pledged to work for the governor’s re-election.

He conveyed assurances from the group’s National President, Iba Gani Adams, that the organisation would support Adeleke’s bid.“We will not allow anyone to steal the mandate of the people,” Oriade said.The Community Security Initiative (COMSAC), represented by Commander Olabamiji Ayeni, also endorsed the governor, stating that his administration had met the expectations of the people.

Leaders of the Hausa and Igbo communities in the state equally declared their support, promising to mobilise their members to vote for Adeleke. They said they would not be swayed by opposition campaigns.

A highlight of the event was when some individuals recently granted pardon by the governor expressed appreciation for the gesture and pledged to mobilise support for his re-election.

The endorsements come as political activities intensify ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.