Turaki, PDP Endorses APM Candidate In Osun Governorship Race

The Osun State governorship race has taken a new turn as the Turaki faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by former governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, formally endorsed Adewale Adebayo, the candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). The endorsement, announced at a gathering in Okuku, Osun State, signals a strategic alliance that could reshape the dynamics of the August 15 election.

Oyinlola, accompanied by former Secretary to the State Government Fatai Akinbade and former PDP South-West Vice Chairman Tajudeen Oladipo, declared the faction’s support for Adebayo. He explained that the partnership mirrors a broader working relationship between the PDP and APM at the national level, now replicated in Osun.

“There is an alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party and the Allied Peoples Movement. The Turaki-led faction of the PDP has adopted the APM candidate in Osun State,” Oyinlola said, before presenting the APM flag to Adebayo as a symbol of endorsement.

In his remarks, Adebayo dismissed suggestions that his candidacy was aimed at negotiation or compromise. He insisted that his campaign is focused on winning and governing Osun State.

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“We are not in this election to participate. We are not in this election to negotiate. We are in this election to win,” he declared. He emphasised that the support of respected political elders strengthens his chances, while highlighting the role of Osun’s youthful population in shaping the state’s future.

Adebayo argued that young people between 18 and 52 years form the backbone of Osun’s electorate and are seeking credible leadership. He urged the Turaki faction to mobilise support, stressing that his campaign represents a credible alternative to existing political structures.

The endorsement adds a new layer of complexity to the contest. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke is seeking re-election under the Accord Party, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) fields Bola Oyebamiji and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presents Najeem Salaam.

With the PDP faction throwing its weight behind Adebayo, the race could see a realignment of voter loyalties, particularly among PDP supporters dissatisfied with internal divisions. The move also underscores the fluid nature of political alliances in Nigeria, where factions often recalibrate strategies to maximise influence.

As a former governor and influential figure in Osun politics, Oyinlola’s backing carries weight. His leadership of the Turaki faction has long been a factor in PDP’s internal dynamics. By aligning with Adebayo, he signals a willingness to challenge traditional party boundaries in pursuit of electoral success.

Adebayo’s campaign rhetoric focuses heavily on youth empowerment and credibility. He positions himself as a candidate who can provide hope and trustworthy leadership. His appeal to young voters reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics, where youth demographics increasingly shape electoral outcomes.

The endorsement of Adewale Adebayo by the Turaki-led PDP faction marks a significant development in the Osun governorship race. It highlights the role of alliances in Nigeria’s political landscape and sets the stage for a competitive election. As August 15 approaches, the impact of this cross-party support will be closely watched, particularly in how it influences voter turnout and reshapes traditional loyalties.