The All Progressives Congress (APC) formally withdrew its petition challenging the re-election of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the election petition tribunal in Osogbo. The withdrawal brings an end to the legal battle over the July 2026 governorship election, in which INEC declared Adeleke the winner.
The APC had challenged the outcome of the election, alleging irregularities. However, the party’s decision to withdraw the petition suggests it has accepted the result. The move is likely to ease political tensions in the state and allow the governor to focus on governance. The APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, had earlier congratulated Adeleke on his victory, urging peace and an end to political violence.
The winners: Governor Adeleke, who can now govern without the distraction of a legal challenge; and the people of Osun, who may benefit from reduced political tensions. The losers: the APC, which has accepted defeat; and the Nigerian political process, which has been tested yet again.
Bottom Line: The APC has withdrawn its petition. Adeleke’s victory is now final. The question is whether the party will accept the outcome or continue to challenge it in the court of public opinion.