In a dramatic shift ahead of Saturday’s gubernatorial polls in Osun State, Simon Adewale, the standard-bearer for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), has officially stepped down from the race to back incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Making the announcement during a press briefing highlighted by the Nigerian Tribune, Adewale explained that the choice came after thorough deliberations with party executives, loyalists, and key stakeholders. He emphasized that the decision prioritized the collective progress of the state over personal ambition.

“After deep reflection and extensive consultation with party leaders, supporters and stakeholders, I have decided to withdraw from the Osun State governorship election,” Adewale stated, noting his belief that Adeleke requires a second term to build upon his administration’s accomplishments.

Formally casting his lot with the incumbent, he urged his base and party affiliates to follow suit: “I am able to declare my full support for the re-election of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke… I call all my supporters, members of Allied Peoples Movement and the good people of Osun to join me in supporting the election.”

“This decision is about the future of Osun,” he added, stressing that public welfare must always supersede political goals.

This unexpected exit drops just under 48 hours before the scheduled August 15, 2026 election, mirroring other final-hour realignments in the state. Previously, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) flagbearer, Adesina Adeyemi-Doro, similarly pulled out of the contest to endorse the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, highlighting intense last-minute tactical maneuvers among contenders.

The naval commander who ordered the apprehension of Hon. Babatunde Komolafe Festus—the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly candidate for Atakumosa East/West Local Government Area in Osun State—following an alleged firearm possession has reportedly been reassigned.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to reports, the politician was released on the instructions of high-ranking authorities after the initial arrest sparked widespread public attention and controversy. Sources indicated that the commander faced swift redeployment as senior figures intervened following the backlash.

“The Naval Commander who arrested Komolafe and the other suspects has been redeployed,” an insider shared, noting that higher authorities grew agitated once the news spread.

Additional accounts confirmed that Komolafe has since regained his freedom. “They have freed the House of Assembly candidate based on orders from those high up,” another source stated. “Instead of taking action, they let Komolafe go while the naval officer who stood up to the occasion was penalized.”

The incident follows Komolafe’s initial detention by Nigerian Navy personnel in his hometown of Ifewara, Osun State, where he was allegedly found with a firearm. Media reports continue to highlight rising political tension and anxieties regarding threats and inflammatory remarks as the state approaches upcoming electoral events.

• The Defection: Abdullahi announced his immediate resignation in a letter to his ward chairman in Kano State, citing years of unfulfilled expectations and a lack of political recognition within his former camp.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

• • Shift in Support: Following his exit, he declared his backing for President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming re-election bid, stating a desire to align with a platform where he feels more respected.

  • Prior Loyalty: The defection marks a notable shift given that Abdullahi was previously a staunch defender of Kwankwaso, having publicly vouched for him earlier in the year regarding local political realignments in Kano.

    He said his decision followed what he described as years of unfulfilled promises within the party, adding that he would now support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid on the platform of the APC.

    “I have been with Kwankwaso for 29 years but have only benefited from failed promises. I will go to where I will be respected more,” Abdullahi said.

    The politician said his prolonged association with Kwankwaso had not produced the political recognition and benefits he expected.

    In his resignation letter, Abdullahi thanked the NDC for the opportunity to serve but announced that his withdrawal from the party took immediate effect.

    He subsequently declared support for the APC and Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

    According to Daily Trust, Abdullahi’s defection comes months after he publicly defended Kwankwaso amid political controversy in Kano State.

    Earlier in the year, he reportedly swore on the Qur’an while insisting that Kwankwaso did not direct Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to defect to the APC.