In an exclusive interview, Osun State Gov Ademola Adeleke opens up about his administration’s achievements, tackling inherited challenges, and why his love for dancing is a strength, not a weakness.
On Osun’s Transformation Under His Leadership
Reflecting on his two-year tenure, Gov Ademola Adeleke asserts that the state has made remarkable progress. “Osun is better off today,” he declares.
He highlights his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, regular salary payments, and clearing the backlog of unpaid pensions. His Imole Free Medical Care programme now benefits 27,000 pensioners, ensuring they receive healthcare at no personal cost—even outside Osun.
Infrastructure-wise, he describes Osun as a “construction site,” with roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals being developed across the state. “Fact-check my claims,” he challenges critics.
Challenges: Governance Beyond the Dancefloor
The governor admits that many underestimated him due to his lively personality. “People assumed I wouldn’t perform because I love dancing,” he says. “But they were wrong.”
A major hurdle upon assuming office was the looted and vandalized Government House, left in disarray by the previous administration. “Everything was taken—TVs, air conditioners, furniture. It was embarrassing,” he recalls. He had to renovate before moving in a year later.
He also inherited backlogs of salaries and abandoned projects. Unlike his predecessor, he chose continuity, recalling contractors to complete unfinished projects. “I don’t abandon projects that benefit the people,” he insists.
On Allegations of Plunging Osun Into Debt
Dismissing claims by the opposition APC, Adeleke insists his administration has not borrowed a single kobo. “Many banks offered us loans, but I rejected them. We are funding projects through prudent financial management and blocking revenue leakages,” he explains.
Unlike some leaders, he has no political godfather to appease. My brother, Dr. Deji Adeleke, supported my election but has never asked for contracts or financial returns. Instead, he holds me accountable for good governance,” he says.
Addressing Nepotism and Development in Ede
Adeleke refutes accusations of favoring his hometown, Ede. “Only one of my first four appointees was from Ede. Our projects are evenly distributed across the state,” he clarifies. He invites critics to verify project locations for themselves.
Mining Reform and Regional Security
Determined to end Osun’s exploitation in the mining sector, Adeleke secured an official state mining license and enforced stricter regulations. We have addressed illegal mining and ensured fair compensation for affected communities,” he says.
On security, Gov Ademola Adeleke collaborates with fellow South-West governors. “Amotekun and security agencies are on high alert. We won’t allow bandits to infiltrate Osun,” he assures residents.
On APC’s 2026 Strategy
With the APC planning to field a governorship candidate from Osun West, Gov Ademola Adeleke remains unbothered. “Let them pick whoever they want. My performance will speak for me,” he asserts confidently.
The Adeleke Political Dynasty & Davido’s Influence
Hailing from a politically influential family, Gov Ademola Adeleke credits their success to unity and strong values. My late brother, Isiaka Adeleke, was a governor and senator. I, too, have served as a senator and now as governor. We were raised to fulfill our promises,” he says.
On his bond with music superstar Davido, Gov Ademola Adeleke reveals, “He’s my cousin but like a son to me. He campaigned passionately for me in 2022, and I promised him we’d reclaim our stolen mandate after the 2018 election.”
Dancing Through Politics: A Governor’s Signature Style
Gov Ademola Adeleke laughs off critics of his dancing. “Even as a baby, I moved whenever music played. Dancing is part of me,” he shares. He believes it humanizes leadership and has even influenced fellow governors to embrace it.
“As long as I deliver good governance, I’ll keep dancing,” he declares with a smile.