13th of October, 2026

OPEN LETTER TO ALL ACCORD PARTY CANDIDATES IN OSUN STATE

It is no longer news that Gov Ademola Adeleke has honoured his agreement to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and has been named the Osun State Coordinator of his re-election campaign, a development that appears to sideline the existing APC structure in Osun State. That agreement is very necessary.

What does this mean for Accord Party candidates in Osun State ahead of the 2027 general elections?

The Rainbow Coalition is here to stay in Osun State, at least for the purpose of the forthcoming presidential election , and this arrangement could have significant implications for some of you contesting under the Accord Party platform.

If you are a candidate who has no firm grip on your party’s local structure and executives, or you are not on good terms with them but are relying solely on the governor’s goodwill to win your election, do yourself a favour: YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN!

Where you have a strong opposition candidate contesting under the APC, the Rainbow Coalition could work in their favour. This does not necessarily mean that Accord Party leaders will openly campaign for APC candidates. However, some party members and supporters may naturally align with the prevailing political wave, potentially giving your opponent an advantage.

Consider this: how do you intend to convince voters who are being mobilised to vote for President Tinubu under the APC banner to turn around and vote for an Accord Party candidate in the same election cycle?

We have seen the implications of similar political arrangements in Oyo State. We also witnessed how the Alliance for Democracy (AD) lost its stronghold in the Southwest to the PDP during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s second term in office, following political realignments.

Why am I raising this issue? You need to be on your toes!

WHAT IS THE WAY OUT?

Every Accord Party candidate needs to return to the grassroots and rebuild their political strength.

1. Reconnect with your local structure. From the polling unit to the ward, local government and state levels, ensure that you have people who are genuinely committed to your ambition.

2. Resolve internal disagreements . If you are having issues with party members or executives, now is the time to settle those differences. Bring everyone on board and give them a reason to work for your success.

3. Build your own campaign machinery . Do not depend entirely on the governor’s popularity or political goodwill. Establish a functional campaign council, mobilise supporters and develop a clear strategy for reaching voters.

4. Understand the political reality . As far as the 2027 elections in Osun State are concerned, do not assume that party loyalty alone will guarantee that everyone works for you . Political interests and individual ambitions may influence decisions at the grassroots.

5. Start campaigning now. Do not wait until the election is around the corner before you begin to mobilise your supporters. Build relationships, communicate your agenda and demonstrate your value to the people.

Let me make this point very clear : if you think this is the time to relax, do little or nothing, and assume that simply mentioning Governor Adeleke’s name will deliver victory, YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN! The State will also give their support but let your foundation be strong.

Look at how Pelumi Olajengbesi has approached his campaign. He appears to understand what is at stake . Despite being among those who agreed to the political arrangement, he has taken steps to consolidate his local structure and establish his campaign council.

That is the kind of political preparation every serious candidate should be thinking about.

The lesson is simple: political endorsements may open doors, but a strong grassroots structure, effective mobilisation and a united team are what can help you win elections.

Dear Accord Party candidates, the time to act is now. Do not gamble with your political future by relying solely on goodwill . Go back to your people, resolve your differences, strengthen your structures and prepare for the realities of 2027.

Note : Don’t think if you lose this election, you will be compensated with political appointment by the governor,  People are plenty to ganusi those appointments because of their role in the party and last governorship election .

A word is enough for the wise!

Ojuse Omotayo Richmond

Ife Central Local Government

Ife Federal Constituency

Osun East Senatorial District