The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended birthday wishes to Governor Ademola Adeleke on the occasion of his 65th birthday, while simultaneously issuing a stern critique of his administration’s performance.
In a statement released on Tuesday by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the APC described Adeleke’s leadership since assuming office in 2022 as a “monumental failure,” claiming that his policies have done little to improve the lives of Osun residents.
“Since the Governor Adeleke-led administration was inaugurated over two years ago, there has been little or nothing for the residents of the state to have unfettered access to meaningful dividends of democracy,” the party stated.
While acknowledging the governor’s personal milestone, the APC urged him to use the moment for deep reflection and a course correction in governance. “It is our hope that this birthday will mark the beginning of a rethink and redirection,” the party added.
The APC further warned that the remaining years of Adeleke’s tenure should be used to deliver impactful governance, accusing the current administration of divisive and vindictive leadership.
“It would prosper your administration if you have the political will to do away with divisive, oppressive and vindictive governance,” Olabisi advised.
In a swift response, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, dismissed the APC’s statement as political posturing, blaming the opposition party’s internal failures during its 2018–2022 tenure for its criticisms.
“The Osun APC is still haunted by the monumental failure of its administration,” Rasheed said, highlighting the Adeleke administration’s achievements in education, infrastructure, workers’ welfare, and debt management.
Rasheed cited the state’s improved ranking in the National Examination Council results and a 40% reduction in state debt as evidence of progress under Adeleke’s leadership.
He also noted that civil servants and pensioners had publicly endorsed Adeleke for a second term, emphasizing improvements in salaries, pensions, and healthcare delivery.
In closing, Rasheed commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for issuing a birthday message to Adeleke, contrasting the President’s goodwill with what he termed the APC’s “lack of political maturity.”
“The state APC should prepare for another defeat in 2026,” he asserted.