Tensions Rise in Osun as Adeleke and Aregbesola Clash, Residents Voice Concern

Residents throughout Osun State are voicing their apprehensions over the escalating verbal conflict between Governor Ademola Adeleke and former Interior Minister and Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The dispute ignited after Aregbesola allegedly threatened to challenge Adeleke in the upcoming 2026 elections, leading to a rapid escalation of tensions.

On Monday, Governor Adeleke’s administration launched a strong counterattack, accusing Aregbesola of bequeathing a legacy of hardship, debt, and devastation during his time in office from 2010 to 2018.

A spokesperson for Governor Adeleke, Olawale Rasheed, characterized Aregbesola’s tenure as the most detrimental in Osun’s history, claiming that the former governor’s harmful policies resulted in delayed salary payments and significant pension liabilities.

In defense of Aregbesola, his political faction, The Omoluabi Progressives, asserted that the debts incurred were strategic investments made amidst challenging economic conditions. They pointed to the warm reception Aregbesola received during a recent visit to Osogbo as evidence of ongoing public support.

Nevertheless, many residents of Osun have expressed their confusion and surprise at the unfolding situation when speaking with DAILY POST.

“I never imagined I would witness such a fierce clash between Adeleke and Aregbesola. They used to collaborate closely. It’s quite shocking,” remarked Kehinde Ajani, a civil servant from Ede.

Sherifat Adewumi, a trader from Ilesa, noted, “It’s hard to determine who is telling the truth. One side claims Osun is on the path to recovery, while the other insists they are being unfairly criticized. We, the citizens, find ourselves caught in the middle.”

Others shared their frustration regarding the politicization of governance.

“They’re expending energy on mutual attacks instead of focusing on serving the people. It’s merely a distraction,” said Paul Oloyede, a pensioner in Osogbo who reported waiting years for his overdue benefits.

This confrontation has reignited debates about Aregbesola’s legacy, with Adeleke’s administration claiming to have settled N60 billion in pension obligations.