Adeleke Secures Second Term as Osun Governor, Defeats APC’s Oyebamiji

Sunday, 16th August, 2026

Governor Ademola Adeleke has been returned to office for a second term after defeating his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the Osun State governorship election held on Saturday.

The final result was announced on Sunday morning at the collation centre in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, following the completion of the exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). According to the Returning Officer, Joshua Ogunwole, Adeleke secured a total of 511,067 votes to emerge victorious.

Oyebamiji of the APC finished second with 444,815 votes, while Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came third with 17,180 votes.

The result showed a relatively competitive contest across the state, with Adeleke recording victories in 19 local government areas, while Oyebamiji won in 11 LGAs.

The election took place against a backdrop of heightened political tension, following reports of clashes, attacks and other incidents in different parts of the state during the days leading up to the poll. Despite those concerns, voting commenced across most polling locations as scheduled, with significant numbers of voters turning out to exercise their franchise.

However, the exercise was not without challenges. Some polling units experienced delays arising from difficulties with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), affecting the accreditation and voting process in certain locations.

Although election-day violence was reportedly limited in comparison with concerns raised before the poll, there were incidents of disruption at some polling centres. Reports also emerged of journalists being harassed in some locations while carrying out their professional duties.

The election further witnessed allegations of vote-buying and voter intimidation in parts of the state, issues that have continued to generate concern over the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

With the declaration of Adeleke as winner, the incumbent has secured another term at the helm of affairs in Osun State. His victory over the APC candidate brings the closely fought contest to an end, following a campaign period marked by intense political competition and heightened public interest.