The South-West leadership of the Accord Party has expressed delight over the decision of Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to defect to the party from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing the defetion as a bold step that strengthens his pathway to securing a second term in office
Adeleke dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing national leadership crisis.
The Osun governor formally received his Accord membership card on Wednesday at a brief declaration ceremony, held at the Government House. Osogbo.
The event was attended by the party’s National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, the National Secretary, Adebukola Ajaja, and members of the National Working Committee.
In a media interaction in Lagos, Rotimi Oke, the Spokesperson of the Forum of South-West Accord State Chairmen, said Adeleke’s entry into the party was a major political development with far-reaching implications for Osun and the region.
Oke, also the Ogun Chairman of the Accord, said the governor’s defection not only signalled political maturity but also aligned naturally with Accord’s ideology of people-centred governance, integrity and accountability.
“The entire South-West ACCORD structure is excited to receive Governor Adeleke.
“His decision is a strong affirmation that ACCORD has become the credible platform for service-oriented leadership in Nigeria,” he said.
According to him, Adeleke’s leadership style—marked by accessibility, emotional connection with citizens, and commitment to welfare and infrastructure delivery—has earned him widespread public trust, making him a valuable addition to the party.
Oke noted that Adeleke’s move was expected to trigger strategic political realignments across the zone as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“A sitting governor joining ACCORD carries significant weight. It shows that the party is rising as a strong alternative to the old political order.
“Governor Adeleke’s second-term ambition is fully at home here, and his achievements align perfectly with our values,” he added.
He reiterated that Accord remained the only political party currently free from internal litigations and godfather interference.
Oke said that such that would allow Adeleke to carry out his development agenda without distractions.
The spokesperson called on other progressive-minded Nigerians to embrace the party’s vision of ethical leadership and citizens-first governance.
He said that Accord was committed to building a political future where integrity guides public service.
Oke said that Adeleke’s entry, marked, “a new phase of political rebirth” for both Osun State and the wider South-West region. (NAN)