Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing widespread speculation that he plans to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking in Abuja on Monday after the inaugural meeting of the PDP National Convention Committee, Governor Adeleke made it clear that his personal relationships across party lines do not affect his political allegiance.
“I’m a very civilised person. If I have friends in the APC and they invite me to a wedding or social function, I will attend. That doesn’t mean I’m joining them,” Adeleke stated. “As we speak, I am the deputy chairman of our convention. I remain a loyal member of the PDP.”
The governor, who also chairs the Accommodation Sub-Committee for the convention scheduled for November 15 and 16, assured party members that preparations were on track and guided strictly by due process.
“We believe it will be very successful. The PDP believes in proper organisation, in doing things the right way, and in accordance with the rule of law,” he said. “We have successfully organised many conventions in the past, and this one will be even more successful. By the special grace of God, the PDP will continue to grow from strength to strength.”
Addressing reports of internal disputes ahead of the convention, Adeleke described the challenges as “a family affair” that the PDP leadership is handling internally.
“I can assure you that we are meeting and resolving our issues internally. We don’t want anyone outside to add sugar, pepper, or salt to the matter; we are handling it ourselves. The PDP is a family, and we know how to manage our affairs,” he emphasised.
Reacting to the recent defection of some governors and ministers to other political parties, the Osun governor said such movements were part of the democratic process and did not threaten the PDP’s national structure.
“Anybody, whether a governor or a minister, has the right to make their own decision. That does not change anything in the PDP. We still have strong membership and widespread support across Nigeria,” he said confidently.
Governor Adeleke reiterated the PDP’s readiness for a peaceful and successful national convention, expressing optimism that the event would strengthen the party’s unity and position ahead of future elections.
“The focus now is unity, organisation, and success. We are fully prepared, and the outcome will be great,” he said.
