ADC Hopeful as APC, PDP Clash Over Osun, Ekiti Governorship Polls

As preparations intensify for the 2026 governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states, Nigeria’s major political parties are sharpening their strategies amid competing claims of popularity and grassroots support. The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are positioning themselves for a fierce contest, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) says it is ready to challenge the dominance of the two larger parties and make significant electoral gains.

With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixing the Ekiti governorship election for June 20, 2026, and Osun for August 8, 2026, political actors have begun laying out their narratives. Party leaders from across the divide are expressing confidence, citing past performances, perceived public sentiment, and internal party strength as indicators of likely outcomes.

PDP Reasserts Claim to Osun and Ekiti

The PDP has maintained that both Osun and Ekiti remain its traditional strongholds, insisting that voters in the two states are eager for a return to its leadership. Speaking on behalf of the party, PDP National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, said residents of both states had grown dissatisfied with the APC and were ready to embrace a change in governance.

Turaki argued that Nigerians, having experienced administrations led by both parties, were now better positioned to judge their performance. According to him, the PDP’s record in governance continues to resonate with voters, particularly in states where economic hardship and policy concerns dominate public discourse.

He expressed confidence that, under a free, fair, and credible electoral process, PDP candidates would secure victory in both states. Turaki further stated that the party’s renewed internal cohesion and national outlook had strengthened its appeal, not only in Osun and Ekiti but across the country.

ADC Projects Rising Influence Ahead of Polls

The ADC, though smaller in size, has projected optimism about its prospects in the forthcoming elections. The party’s National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, described the ADC as a growing force in Osun and Ekiti, buoyed by what he termed strong grassroots support and effective leadership.

Rufai highlighted the influence of the party’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, who hails from Osun State, as a factor contributing to the ADC’s confidence. He claimed that the party’s structure and appeal had attracted attention even from prominent political figures, reinforcing its belief that it could perform strongly, and possibly win, in both states.

According to Rufai, widespread dissatisfaction with APC policies, including economic reforms and borrowing practices, has created an opening for alternative political platforms. He maintained that the ADC was well-positioned to capitalise on this sentiment, presenting itself as a credible option for voters seeking change.

APC Dismisses Opposition Claims, Expresses Confidence

The APC has rejected assertions by both the PDP and ADC, describing their claims as unfounded and disconnected from political realities on the ground. APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the ruling party remained firmly in control and confident of retaining Ekiti while reclaiming Osun.

Ibrahim questioned the basis on which opposition parties concluded that Nigerians had rejected the APC, arguing that defections and internal crises within rival parties undermined their credibility. He maintained that voters were rational and would assess parties based on performance rather than rhetoric.

He further attributed the APC’s confidence to what he described as the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, as well as quiet but effective party organisation. According to him, indicators across both states point to growing acceptance of the APC, despite criticism from political opponents.