Ex-Osun SSG withdraws from Aregbesola-backed ADC group over guber ticket dispute
Former Secretary to the Osun State Government, Moshood Adeoti, has officially exited the faction Omoluabi Progressives, a caucus within African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, amid speculation over the party’s 2026 governorship ticket allocation.
Adeoti, who served throughout the eight-year tenure of former governor Rauf Aregbesola, submitted a letter of withdrawal dated November 30, 2025, stating his full disengagement from all Omoluabi Progressives activities. In the letter, he described the decision as “never an easy one,” referencing his long-term commitment and investments in the group. He cited pressure from his immediate and extended family and a desire to take a “short rest from all political activities.”
The move comes against the backdrop of internal realignments ahead of the ADC’s 2026 governorship primary in Osun State. Sources within the group claim that a mini-election, held recently in Lagos, identified former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Najeem Salam, as the party’s preferred candidate. Salam reportedly secured 11 of the 15 votes among aspirants, while Adeoti got three and another aspirant, Adelere Oriolowo, got one.
It is understood that Adeoti’s resignation stems from dissatisfaction over losing internal support for the ticket to Salam. At previous primaries, the group had backed Adeoti, including during 2022 when he unsuccessfully contested for the governorship under another party.
Reacting to his departure, party insiders expressed disappointment but stopped short of severing all ties. The leadership said politics inevitably involves crises and resolution, suggesting they remain open to reconciliation in the future.
Adeoti’s exit signals another twist in Osun’s evolving political landscape, adding uncertainty ahead of the 2026 election as actors reposition themselves within and outside the ADC ahead of candidate selection and campaigning.