In a move that’s left Osun State buzzing, Governor Ademola Adeleke has sensationally dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the little-known Accord Party,allegedly to “protect” himself and the state’s progress. The governor, known for his flamboyant style and love of the spotlight, gave what he called a “candid explanation” on Channels Television’s Politics Today, but critics say this is just political theatre.

“It’s not true that I abandoned PDP. I love PDP, but I have to protect myself,” Adeleke declared, seemingly trying to have his cake and eat it too. Despite claiming “enduring loyalty” to the PDP, Adeleke used the interview to frame his departure as a heroic act for the people of Osun, rather than what some see as a blatant power move.

Let’s not forget, Adeleke’s defection comes on the heels of serious infighting within the PDP. According to the governor, these tensions “threatened his personal security”,but is this concern for safety, or just political calculation? Whatever the reason, Adeleke is now the Accord Party’s governorship candidate, setting up a dramatic showdown against the APC, his former party the PDP, and the ADP coalition in what’s gearing up to be a wild election.

Many are questioning whether jumping to a fringe party will backfire. But Adeleke, never short on confidence, insists his “record in office” will win over Osun voters. “Osun people are wiser…they have decided to toe the Imole path; it is me they are talking about,” he boasted, dismissing any notion that party loyalty matters. “Party is just the platform,” he added. Clearly, Adeleke wants the story to be all about him,not the party machinery that brought him to power.

Since taking office, Adeleke has touted his efforts to clear salary arrears and improve state infrastructure. He paints himself as the savior of Osun: “I came in, I brought hope, I brought light.” Self-praise aside, questions remain about whether voters are really buying it, or simply tired of the political circus.

On fears of “federal might” muscling the next election, Adeleke was quick to play the underdog card. He called President Tinubu a “democrat” and likened his own journey to Tinubu’s, asserting, “I was in the opposition when I won last time, and it’s not going to be different.” With confidence bordering on bravado, Adeleke seems to relish the narrative of fighting against the odds,never mind the real reasons behind his dramatic party switch.

As Osun State braces for what promises to be a no-holds-barred election, Adeleke’s bold defection is raising eyebrows and sparking debates across the state. Is this about principle, personal gain, or just the latest episode in the never-ending saga of Nigerian politics? One thing’s for sure: Osun will be watching, and so will the rest of the country.