Osun 2026: Political Strategist Funmiso Babarinde Reflects on Party Turmoil, Backs Adeleke’s Re-Election Under Accord
In a reflective statement ahead of his birthday, Osun political strategist and long-standing PDP member, and Aide to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Hon Funmiso Babarinde, has shared insights on recent political developments in the state—including the disqualification of several opposition aspirants and Governor Ademola Adeleke’s defection to the Accord Party for his re-election bid.
Babarinde described the unfolding events of late 2025 as “memorable,” noting that the period has offered him valuable lessons in personal, political, and societal growth. He urged aspiring politicians to clearly define their purpose before venturing into partisan politics, emphasizing the importance of consistency, integrity, and understanding one’s background, family, and capacity before joining the fray.
Recounting his political journey, Babarinde paid tribute to a late mentor whose support, he said, shaped his rise in state politics. “My appointment as Executive Assistant to Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola on Students Affairs laid the foundation for my interactions across Osun politics till today,” he stated. He also highlighted his service as Assistant State Organizing Secretary of the Osun PDP, noting that his late leader entrusted him with responsibilities he carried out with “zero supervision.”
Speaking on the disqualification of seven APC governorship aspirants, Babarinde revealed that he had worked closely with some of them and shared personal and political ties with others. He recounted his experiences with figures such as Otunba Iyiola Omisore, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, and Omooba Dotun Babayemi, offering measured reflections on their political relationships.
Turning to the Adeleke dynasty, Babarinde described himself as a political disciple of the late Serubawon Adeleke, praising his leadership style and influence. He recalled his role as head of the situation room during Senator Ademola Adeleke’s senatorial election, noting that political differences had temporarily distanced him from the camp but that reconciliation was later achieved.
In a significant declaration, Babarinde reaffirmed his long-standing membership in the PDP but stated openly that he carries “a moral burden” to support Governor Adeleke’s re-election under the Accord Party. He referenced the prolonged internal crisis within the PDP at the national level as part of the context driving his decision.
“As a foundation member of the PDP in Osun since 1998, I remain in the party. But I am committed to working for the success of Asiwaju Dr. Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke as he seeks a second term under the Accord banner,” he said.
Babarinde appealed to Osun residents to vote for Accord—the party listed at the top of the ballot with the thumb logo—in the upcoming governorship contest, arguing that the Adeleke administration has demonstrated commitment to good governance, infrastructure, and the overall well-being of the state.
“IMOLE wa ko ni di okunkun,” he concluded, praying for sustained progress and stability in the State of the Living Spring.