Osun 2026: Accord Chieftain Akinloye Defects To APC Ahead Of Governorship Election

A chieftain of the Accord Party in Osun State, Hon. Akinloye Isiaka Muhammed, has resigned from the party and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

Akinloye, who served as Vice Chairman of factional local government executive, formally announced his resignation in a letter addressed to the Accord Party Chairman, Ward 6, Olorunda Local Government Area.

In the letter, he said his decision followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates, supporters, community leaders and constituents across Olorunda Local Government Area.

According to him, his defection was informed by his conviction that the APC offers a broader and more effective platform to advance the aspirations of the people and contribute to the development of Osun State.

“After careful reflection on the current political realities and my unwavering commitment to the progress, unity and sustainable development of Osun State, I have resolved to continue my political journey under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC),” he stated.

Akinloye maintained that he remains committed to public service, promising to continue serving the people with integrity, accountability and dedication regardless of political affiliation.

He also appreciated members and leaders of the Accord Party for the roles they played in his political journey, stressing that he harbours no ill feelings against anyone despite his decision to leave the party.

Reacting to criticisms trailing his defection, the former Accord chieftain insisted that changing political parties is a constitutional right and not a political offence.

“Their attacks neither shake my resolve nor diminish my conviction. Rather, they confirm that speaking the truth has become uncomfortable for those who profit from silence,” he said.

He added that his loyalty has always been to the people of Osogbo rather than to any individual or political group.

Akinloye recalled that he was a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1999 before later joining Senator Ademola Adeleke in the Accord Party, stressing that his years of political service and sacrifices cannot be questioned.

He further expressed concern over what he described as the gradual erosion of Osogbo’s historical identity, political relevance and developmental priorities, citing issues surrounding some public institutions and government facilities in the state capital.

The APC member also described himself as a businessman and philanthropist based in the United States, noting that his involvement in politics has always been driven by public service rather than personal gain.

According to him, his decision to join the APC was reached after a careful assessment of the political development of Osun State since 1999 and his belief that the party has contributed significantly to attracting federal presence and strategic opportunities to Osogbo.

Declaring that his decision was irreversible, Akinloye said no amount of criticism, propaganda or political pressure would make him reconsider his position.

“My decision is final. My conscience is clear. My commitment to Osogbo remains absolute. I am proud to be a member of the All Progressives Congress and will continue to work with every progressive-minded stakeholder committed to restoring the dignity, political relevance, unity and sustainable development of Osogbo, Osun State and Nigeria,” he said.