BREAKING: Tension Peaks in Osogbo as Heavy Security Locks Down Venue for PDP’s High-Stakes Osun Governorship Primary

Amid heightened uncertainty and deepening internal wrangling, Osogbo was thrown into a charged political atmosphere on Tuesday as heavily armed security operatives took over the Adolak Event Centre, venue of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) 2026 Osun Governorship Primary.

The development comes despite a counter-directive issued by the state chapter of the party, led by Chairman Sunday Bisi, who insisted that the primary—originally fixed for December 2, 2025—could not hold due to the unresolved national leadership crisis rocking the PDP. Bisi had even hinted that Governor Ademola Adeleke might distance himself from seeking the party’s ticket under the current political tension.

However, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Hon. Theophilous Shan, dismissed those concerns and ordered the exercise to proceed, a decision that deepened suspense and triggered tight security measures across the venue.

In what many described as an unprecedented show of force, personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) mounted multiple checkpoints, screened party loyalists, and secured all entry points leading to the centre.
Their presence reflected the level of anxiety surrounding the controversial primary.

Party Committee, INEC Storm Venue

The PDP Primary Election Committee, led by Mr. Humphery Abba, arrived early at the venue alongside officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to set the process in motion.

A member of the committee disclosed that 957 out of 990 accredited delegates were already on ground—an impressive turnout considering the internal turmoil.

Two-Man Race Turns Solo After Adeleke’s Exit

Initially, two aspirants were expected to battle for the ticket:

Senator Ademola Adeleke

Adebayo Olugbenga Adedamola

However, in a twist that added more drama to the unfolding political theatre, Adeleke reportedly withdrew from the race after pulling out of the party, leaving Adedamola as the sole contender—pending any last-minute surprises.

A Party at a Crossroads

As proceedings continue under heavy watch, analysts say today’s primary may either redefine the PDP’s future in Osun State or deepen existing fractures.
What is clear, however, is that all eyes—within and beyond Osun—are firmly fixed on the outcome of this tense and highly scrutinized contest.