The People’s Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in the August 15 Osun State governorship election, Adedamola Adebayo, popularly known as FRYO, has withdrawn from the race and thrown his weight behind the incumbent Governor, Ademola Adeleke.
Adebayo announced this decision on Wednesday during a press conference in Osogbo, just 72 hours before the gubernatorial election, saying he had also resolved to collapse his political structure to support governor Adeleke.
He maintained that the decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, party members and other stakeholders, as well as a personal assessment of the political situation in the state of virtue.
“This decision was not taken in haste. I have spent considerable time consulting with people, listening to different perspectives and carefully examining the political situation in our state,” Adebayo said.
Adebayo explained further that the action was informed by what he described as the larger interest of Osun State, stressing that political leadership was not solely about pursuing personal ambition.
“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,” he said.
Adebayo then formally announced his support for the incumbent governor, declaring, “After extensive consultations and careful consideration, I have decided to endorse His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke, in the August 15 gubernatorial election in Osun State.”
He said he was aware that the decision might generate questions among his supporters and members of the PDP but maintained that he was prepared to take responsibility for his choice.
“I want to make it very clear that this decision is mine, and I take full responsibility for it,” he stated.
The former candidate subsequently appealed to members of the PDP and his supporters across the state to work for the re-election of governor Adeleke in the coming election.
“I encourage all PDP members, supporters and party structures across the state, who believe in my leadership and judgment to support the emergence of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke,” Adebayo stated.
He however acknowledged that members of the party and his supporters remained free to make their individual political choices, stressing that his decision should not be interpreted as an attempt to suppress divergent opinions.
Adebayo also urged Accord party supporters, opposition parties and other political actors to maintain peace before, during and after Saturday’s election.
“Let me also appeal to all political leaders, candidates, party supporters and citizens of Osun State to reject violence, intimidation, hate speech and unnecessary political bitterness,” he said.
The former PDP candidate appreciated those who had supported his governorship ambition since inception, assuring them that his decision would not erase the relationships built during the political process.
Adebayo however urged his supporters to accept the development with maturity and channel their political strength towards ensuring a peaceful election.
The development represents a significant late change in the political landscape ahead of Saturday’s election.
