Key Takeaways
- Governor Ademola Adeleke's endorsement of President Bola Tinubu was announced before his election victory, according to his spokesman.
- Olawale Rasheed insists the decision reflects a developmental strategy aimed at attracting federal infrastructure projects to Osun State.
- Several road projects, including Ilesa-Ibadan and Osogbo-Ibadan, are highlighted as early dividends of the governor's stance.
The political landscape in Osun State has been stirred by Governor Ademola Adeleke's open support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election. However, his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, has moved to calm critics by stressing that the endorsement was never a product of electoral victory. It was, he said, a long-standing position that predates the governor's success at the polls.
Appearing on Arise TV on Tuesday, Rasheed addressed the growing concern among Osun residents who may feel let down by Adeleke's alignment with a rival party. He argued that the governor's endorsement was not a sudden political calculation but a consistent declaration made across his political affiliations. "When Mr Governor was within the PDP, the endorsement was announced. When he crossed over to Accord, the endorsement was announced," Rasheed explained.
Why the Governor Backs Tinubu
According to Rasheed, Adeleke's support for President Tinubu is rooted in practical development needs rather than party loyalty. The governor believes that maintaining a strong working relationship with the occupant of the presidential seat is essential for Osun's progress. Rasheed noted that Adeleke has consistently spoken about the need to attract federal presence and secure completion of federal road projects within the state.
"The governor explained the reasons why he is endorsing. He talks about developmental focus. The need to attract federal presence. The need to get most of the roads in Osun's federal project done, and the need to support a man that is on the seat that can do this for us," Rasheed said.
Infrastructure as Evidence
The spokesperson pointed to several ongoing federal road projects in Osun State as proof that the endorsement is already yielding results. He listed the Ilesa-Ibadan Road, where work has resumed, as well as the newly awarded Osogbo-Ibadan Road and the Gbongan-to-Osogbo Road as examples of federal attention flowing to the state.
For Rasheed, these projects demonstrate that Adeleke's political stance is aligned with the interests of the people. He rejected the notion that the governor is acting opportunistically, insisting that the endorsement has been consistent and strategically motivated by a desire to bring tangible benefits to Osun State.
Addressing the Betrayal Narrative
The spokesman urged residents not to view the governor's decision as a betrayal. Instead, he framed it as a calculated move to position Osun for greater federal support. "Mr. Governor is only doing the right thing that is in the best interest of Osun people," he maintained.
This explanation may not fully satisfy political opponents, but it underscores the complex reality of Nigerian governance, where state executives often need to coexist with federal authorities regardless of party affiliation. Adeleke's posture highlights the growing pragmatism among opposition governors seeking to secure resources for their states.
Why This Matters
Adeleke's endorsement of President Tinubu carries significant political implications, both for Osun State and for the broader opposition front. It demonstrates how governance priorities can override partisan loyalties, and it raises questions about the future of coalition politics as the next election cycle approaches.