The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Osun State, Adedamola Adebayo, popularly known as FRYO, has withdrawn from the August 15, 2026 governorship election and declared support for incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Adebayo announced his withdrawal on Wednesday during a press conference in Osogbo, just three days before voters are scheduled to go to the polls.
The development represents a significant late political realignment in the state, with Adebayo also directing PDP members, supporters and political structures associated with him to support Adeleke.
Adebayo’s decision comes at a critical stage of the election, as candidates and political parties intensify their final mobilisation efforts across Osun.
The PDP candidate’s withdrawal effectively removes his candidacy from the active contest while transferring his political support base towards Adeleke.
Reports indicate that Adebayo publicly endorsed the governor’s re-election bid while addressing journalists in Osogbo.
The move is particularly significant because it comes only days before the election, when most candidates would ordinarily be focused on consolidating their support ahead of polling day.
Adebayo’s directive to his supporters could potentially influence the political calculations in some constituencies, depending on how much of his support base follows the endorsement.
Adeleke is seeking re-election amid a highly competitive Osun contest involving candidates from major political parties.
The election has generated considerable political attention, with competing camps intensifying their final appeals to voters as the poll approaches.
Adebayo’s decision adds another twist to an already fluid contest and could trigger further conversations about alliances and voter realignment ahead of Saturday’s election.
For the PDP, the development also comes at a delicate moment as the party attempts to maintain political relevance in the state.
The decision by its candidate to back Adeleke means his supporters are now being asked to redirect their votes and campaign structures towards the governor.
Whether the endorsement will translate into actual votes remains uncertain and will ultimately be determined by voters at the ballot box.
With only days remaining before the election, political parties are expected to step up their mobilisation as Osun prepares for another closely watched governorship contest.