OSUN: ATIKU / AREGBESOLA SETS FOR ADC ?

OSUN NNPP AS AREGBESOLA’S PLAN B

By Akin Adeyi,

The once murky political landscape of the state is rapidly clearing, contrary to predictions by experts that it would remain stagnant until the first quarter of next year. Recent developments, particularly following the suspension of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola from the All Progressives Congress (APC), have accelerated this process. Notably, Mr. Aregbesola, a two-term former governor of the state, was recently issued a suspension order by the APC.

Aregbesola’s extended silence concerning the suspension order, spanning three months, appears to have extinguished any possibility of reconciliation between him and his former party, APC. The party, judging from current trends, seems to have made a deliberate decision to proceed without the former Interior Minister, whom they have deemed a considerable liability.

Aregbesola’s determination to explore alternative political avenues, exemplifying characteristic resilience of a politician of his caliber, has led him to seek opportunities beyond the APC. Rauf’s tactical shift, evoking the Yoruba proverb recommending Ilala town for alternative dwelling place if living in Ila Orangan no longer provide harmonious cohabitation, has culminated in an alliance with Abubakar Atiku. Atiku, the Turakin Adamawa, having represented the Peoples Democratic Party in the presidential election, secured a second-place finish. He struggled to surpass a greenhorn Peter Obi and his Labor Party in that election. Contrary to expectations, the prolonged conflict between Atiku and Nyesom Wike’s faction just like the Aregbesola/ Tinubu’s feud continue to prompt Atiku’s imminent departure from the PDP to the African Democratic Congress(ADC).
However, according to highly reliable sources, Aregbesola is not placing all his bets on one outcome by following Atiku dogmatically in this situation, instead he is cultivating the Osun chapter of the NNPP, led by Mr Tosin Odeyemi, as a backup plan.Odeyemi and his party have recently showcased financial prowess, prompting political analysts to strongly speculate about the involvement of Aregbesola. The Osun NNPP chapter, formerly lacking a suitable state headquarters, now boasts offices across local government headquarters.
The Osun State chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party has even vowed to unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke in the 2026 governorship election, drawing criticism from the Peoples Democratic Party.

The NNPP made its intentions known during the inauguration of its offices in Ila, Boripe, and Ifelodun Local Government Areas.

Speaking at the event in Ila, Osun NNPP Chairman, Mr Tosin Odeyemi, expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the next election, citing dissatisfaction with the current administration and the economic challenges facing the nation.
Approximately two weeks ago, Odeyemi denied any involvement of Rauf in his party, citing Mr. Rabiu Kwankwaso as the sole driving force behind him. However, he inadvertently revealed his true sentiments in a recent Facebook post, he attached a photo of himself with Rauf stating: “Osun 2026: A productive visit to Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola”. Whereas, according to sources picture was snapped after a strategic meeting session involving Rauf and some other critical stakeholders on both sides of the table.

Insiders revealed that the Osun PDP suffered the most significant setback from this development, having banked on a potential repeat alliance with Aregbesola’s faction for their possible electoral success. The first indication of concern was Rauf’s statement on his verified X handle, stressing the importance of mobilizing grassroots politicians and thought leaders to reinforce their commitment to good governance and reclaim of Osun for the progressives. This declaration not only rattled the Osun PDP but also foreclosed their hopes of capitalizing on the Aregbesola-APC rift to retain power after 2026. On the other hand, the Osun APC is now apathetic towards Rauf’s actions, regarding him as an insignificant troublemaker and confused individual. Additionally, a party stalwart, who chose to remain anonymous, disclosed that their party considers itself better off without Rauf Aregbesola and has decided to move forward, more resolute and focused. Previously, the PDP felt more confident, believing they only had the APC as their adversary. However, the situation has changed now, as the ruling party now fears losing members to Atiku’s ADC or Aregbesola’s NNPP.

Akin Adeyi,
Akoni Oodua Ayeniromo Orunogbeke
Capone de Tutti.
6th December,2024