Former PDP aspirant Adedamola Adebayo backs Adeleke ahead of the August 15 Osun election, urging supporters to embrace peaceful participation
Former Peoples Democratic Party aspirant Adedamola Adebayo, popularly known as FRYO, endorsed Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party in Osogbo on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, ahead of the state’s August 15 governorship election.
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Adebayo announced the decision at a press conference after what he described as extensive consultations and careful consideration of Osun’s political situation.
The endorsement represents a notable shift for Adebayo, who emerged from the PDP’s controversial governorship primary in December 2025 but was not included on the final list of candidates published by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Adebayo said his decision was not motivated by haste or personal calculations. Rather, he said he had consulted political stakeholders, listened to differing views and considered what he believed would serve the wider interests of Osun residents.
“I, Hon. Adedamola Adebayo, popularly known as FRYO, hereby endorse His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke, ahead of the August 15, 2026, gubernatorial election in Osun State,” he said.
He subsequently appealed to PDP members and supporters who shared his position to support Adeleke through peaceful and lawful participation.
“Politics is not only about contesting elections. Politics is also about understanding the realities of the moment, making difficult decisions when necessary, and putting the larger interest of our people above personal ambition,” Adebayo said.
The former aspirant also acknowledged that some of his supporters could disagree with his decision. He nevertheless stressed that he was taking personal responsibility for the endorsement.
“I want to make it very clear that this decision is mine, and I take full responsibility for it,” he said.
Adebayo said he had communicated his position to PDP leaders, members and stakeholders across Osun State, while encouraging those who trusted his judgement to support Adeleke at the ballot box.
His intervention comes just three days before the governorship election, which has already been marked by intense campaigning and growing political tension among the major contenders.
Adebayo also used the occasion to appeal for restraint as parties enter the final stretch of the campaign.
He urged political leaders, candidates, supporters and residents to reject violence, intimidation and inflammatory rhetoric, warning against allowing political disagreements to damage the state’s social fabric.
“Osun State is bigger than any individual. Osun State is bigger than any political party. And Osun State is certainly bigger than any election,” he said.
The former PDP aspirant said his participation in the party’s electoral process remained an important part of his political journey and expressed appreciation to those who supported his campaign.
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For Adebayo, the endorsement marks a significant recalibration of his political position ahead of Saturday’s vote, while his appeal for peaceful participation adds to growing calls for restraint as Osun prepares to choose its next governor.
