OSOGBO, Nigeria — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to stop blaming President Bola Tinubu for what it described as his political challenges ahead of the August 15 governorship election, urging him instead to account for his administration’s performance before the people of the state.
In a statement issued by the party, the APC accused Governor Adeleke of attempting to shift responsibility for his political difficulties to the President rather than addressing issues relating to governance in Osun State. According to the party, elections are determined by the judgment of the electorate based on the performance and programmes of candidates, not by political accusations directed at the Federal Government.
The ruling party maintained that President Tinubu remains focused on implementing national policies aimed at improving infrastructure, strengthening security, expanding economic opportunities and addressing developmental challenges across the country. It argued that linking the President to state political contests serves little purpose and distracts attention from issues that directly affect the people of Osun.
The APC further stated that Governor Adeleke should use the campaign period to present the achievements of his administration and explain how he intends to improve governance if re-elected. According to the party, democratic elections provide an opportunity for leaders to seek renewed mandates based on measurable performance rather than political rhetoric.
The party expressed confidence that its governorship candidate would present a compelling alternative to voters through issue-based campaigns focused on development, job creation, education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and improved public services. It said the electorate deserves clear policy proposals that address the state’s developmental needs rather than exchanges of political accusations.
The APC also appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the campaign period and avoid inflammatory statements capable of creating unnecessary tension. It emphasised the importance of respecting democratic values, electoral laws and the authority of institutions responsible for conducting the election.
Political analysts observe that campaigns ahead of the Osun governorship election have intensified in recent weeks as parties increase grassroots mobilisation and public engagement. They note that issues such as economic development, youth employment, security, education, healthcare and infrastructure are expected to dominate political debates leading up to the poll.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly assured voters of its readiness to conduct a credible election while urging political parties, candidates and supporters to comply with electoral regulations. Security agencies have likewise pledged to provide adequate protection before, during and after the election to ensure a peaceful voting process.
Civil society organisations have continued to encourage political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and refrain from hate speech, misinformation and actions capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process. They maintain that peaceful political competition is essential to strengthening democracy and ensuring credible elections.
As the August 15 governorship election approaches, political parties are expected to intensify campaigns across Osun State in an effort to win voter support. The APC maintained that the election should be decided by the people based on the performance, competence and vision of candidates, insisting that Governor Adeleke should focus on defending his administration’s record rather than blaming President Tinubu for his political challenges.
