Osun 2026: Another Guber Candidate Emerges In Accord Party After Adeleke

Report on “Osun 2026: Another Guber Candidate Emerges in Accord Party After Adeleke”

The political landscape of Osun State ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election has taken a dramatic turn with the emergence of another candidate within the Accord Party. This development follows the defection of Governor Ademola Adeleke from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Accord Party, where he was swiftly declared the party’s flagbearer. However, internal divisions within the Accord Party have now produced a rival candidate, Clement Bamigbola, raising questions about the unity and legitimacy of the party’s preparations for the upcoming election.

Background

Governor Ademola Adeleke, who had been serving under the PDP, defected to the Accord Party alongside his deputy and several aides. His defection was followed by a primary election in which he emerged as the sole aspirant, securing 145 out of 150 delegate votes. The Accord Party’s national leadership cleared him to contest, and he was officially announced as the party’s candidate for the 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State.

Emergence of Clement Bamigbola

In a surprising twist, a faction within the Accord Party led by Chris Imumolen organized its own primary election and declared Clement Bamigbola as its candidate. This faction strongly criticized Adeleke’s defection, describing it as a “back-door entry” and declaring it invalid. According to the Imumolen-led group, Adeleke’s emergence did not follow proper party procedures, thereby undermining the legitimacy of his candidacy.

Internal Party Crisis

The emergence of Bamigbola highlights deep divisions within the Accord Party. While the national leadership has endorsed Adeleke, the Imumolen faction insists that due process was ignored. This conflict threatens the internal cohesion of the party and could weaken its chances in the 2026 election. Party insiders have expressed concern that the dual candidacies may confuse voters and create legal challenges, potentially destabilizing the Accord Party’s campaign.

Implications for the 2026 Election

The situation presents significant implications for Osun State politics. Adeleke, as the incumbent governor, carries considerable influence and political machinery, but his candidacy under Accord is now contested. Bamigbola’s emergence introduces uncertainty, as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may need to resolve which candidate is the legitimate flagbearer. This division could also benefit rival parties, particularly the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC), who may capitalize on Accord’s internal crisis to strengthen their own positions.

Let's Take A Break

The emergence of Clement Bamigbola as a factional candidate in the Accord Party after Governor Ademola Adeleke’s defection and candidacy underscores the fragile nature of party politics in Osun State. With two candidates now claiming legitimacy within the same party, the Accord Party faces a critical test of unity and credibility ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election. The outcome of this internal struggle will not only shape the party’s fortunes but also influence the broader political dynamics of Osun State in the coming year.