The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) governorship candidate in Osun State, Adebayo Simon Adewale, has withdrawn from the August 15, 2026, election and endorsed incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party.
Adewale Explains Decision
Adewale announced his withdrawal during a press conference in Osogbo on Thursday, August 13, saying the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultation” with party leaders, supporters and other stakeholders.
He said the decision was not influenced by pressure or personal interest, but was made to place the interest of Osun State above his personal ambition.
“After carefully assessing the situation, I have come to the conclusion that Governor Adeleke deserves another term to consolidate the progress his administration has recorded,” Adewale said.
APM Candidate Backs Adeleke
Adewale subsequently declared his “full support for the re-election of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke” and urged his supporters and members of the APM to support the governor.
He said his decision was aimed at promoting “peace, stability, development and the collective interest of our state.”
The announcement was contained in a video of the press conference that circulated online, including a post by Oni Gbenga Lawrence, a Special Assistant on Digital Media to Governor Adeleke.
Withdrawal Comes Ahead of Osun Election
Adewale’s withdrawal comes less than two days before the Osun governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15.
The major candidates remaining in the race include Adeleke of the Accord Party, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, and African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Najeem Salaam.
Adewale, a real estate developer and former APM state chairman, had earlier emerged as the party’s consensus candidate before announcing his decision to step down.
Another Candidate Withdraws From Race
His decision follows a similar development involving the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who recently withdrew from the contest and endorsed APC candidate Oyebamiji.
The latest withdrawals have added a fresh dimension to the final days of campaigning as political parties and candidates intensify efforts to consolidate support ahead of the Osun governorship election.
Adebayo Adewale’s withdrawal from the Osun election and endorsement of Ademola Adeleke are expected to shape further political alignments before voters go to the polls on Saturday.
