Tension is growing among members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State over fears that the ongoing factional rift could disrupt the proper nomination of the state’s governor, Ademola Adeleke ahead of next year’s governorship election in the state.
The crisis rocking the PDP at the national level has deepened following a court order halting its national convention and the suspension and counter-suspension of national officers by two rival factions within the party.
Some party members in the state voiced concern about the situation, warning that the conflict might jeopardize Governor Adeleke’s re-nomination for a second term.
According to Vanguard, a party chieftain in Osun, revealed that the crisis could affect the governor’s chances, especially if a rival candidate emerges from the opposing faction.
“Our worry is that some people may eventually sponsor someone from the other faction to contest for the party ticket which may lead to another litigation again. The party in Osun cannot afford another round of litigation like it witnessed in 2022,” the chieftain said.
Fears over Wike faction’s stance
Meanwhile, a party stalwart in Osogbo, Mr. Yusuf Adewale, expressed fears that the Nyesom Wike-led faction could move against Governor Adeleke’s re-election bid, given the open hostilities between both factions at the national level.
“We are afraid that the Wike-led faction may go all out against Governor Adeleke’s proper re-nomination against the 2026 governorship re-election. The present situation is making the opposition in the State to spread negative narrative against the governor and the PDP,” he added.
In a swift move to calm tensions, the Osun PDP, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Sunday Bisi, urged members to remain calm despite the ongoing crisis.
“The recent court development is being handled with the maturity and institutional experience for which the PDP is known. The national leadership of our party has already initiated appropriate legal and administrative measures to address the matter without delay.
“While those steps are ongoing, the Osun PDP enjoins all members, supporters, and stakeholders to continue their mobilisation and grassroots engagements toward ensuring a resounding victory for the party in the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 8, 2026,” the statement added.
