APC Scribe Basiru Visits Adeleke, Solicits Osun Backing for Tinubu's 2027 Bid

In what political observers are calling a potential realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), recently paid a visit to Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke. During the visit, Basiru openly acknowledged that the APC's defeat by Adeleke in the last election was a painful experience for party members.

Basiru recounted his extensive personal involvement, stating he campaigned vigorously for Bola Oyebamiji across at least twelve local government areas. However, he emphasized that the election was now in the past, urging political stakeholders to concentrate on fostering unity and progress within the state. "Yes, it is very painful for some of us that he defeated our party in the election. I campaigned in at least 12 local governments for my candidate and I deployed all resources to ensure that we won the election," he stated.

The National Secretary proceeded to congratulate Governor Adeleke on his victory and committed to collaborating with him to garner substantial support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election campaign in 2027. Basiru, who served as the campaign coordinator for the APC candidate, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, outlined three key motivations for his visit to Governor Adeleke.

Firstly, it was to express gratitude for the governor's condolence visit and attendance at his late mother's funeral. Secondly, to congratulate Adeleke on his electoral triumph. And thirdly, to thank him for endorsing President Tinubu for the upcoming 2027 presidential election. This visit by Basiru closely followed a similar gesture from Oyebamiji, the APC governorship candidate, who had also congratulated Adeleke and pledged support for initiatives promoting peace and development in Osun State.

Oyebamiji had earlier called on Adeleke to promptly address the recent killings in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area, stressing the critical need for lasting peace and security now that the electoral contest was concluded. Basiru specifically recalled Governor Adeleke's personal gesture during his mother's burial, noting that Adeleke not only visited his family but also attended the ceremony, even wearing matching attire. "My visit here is in three fold. I want to thank His Excellency and also to return the visit he made to my house during the time I lost my mother. You know that it was well reported that he came to my house to visit me and my family. He also graciously attended the burial ceremonies for my mother. He even wore a complete Agbada of the same attire that I wore. So I came to thank him as is expected of an Omoluabi," Basiru explained.

Separately, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed profound appreciation to all traditional rulers who supported him throughout his re-election campaign. Speaking during a visit to the Owa Obokun, Adimula of Ijeshaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, the governor acknowledged the immense pressure monarchs faced, commending those who remained steadfast in defending truth and good governance.

Adeleke, who presented his certificate of returns to the Owa Obokun, described the election period as akin to a "near war" but attributed his victory to divine intervention. He detailed ongoing reconciliation efforts under his administration, reaffirming his declaration that there were "no winner, no vanquished."

Oba Haastrup, receiving the governor at his palace, hailed Adeleke as "the David of our time," asserting that his re-election signified the triumph of God's will over human machinations. The royal father lauded the governor's fervent love for God, demonstrated through praise singing, and expressed hope that other highly placed Nigerians would emulate such worship. Referencing the biblical account of David's wife, the Owa Obokun cautioned critics who mocked the governor's praise dancing, explaining that the biblical event highlighted God's deep affection for those who praise Him.