The campaign for the Osun governorship election took a religious turn on Sunday as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Ademola Adeleke exchanged sharp remarks over faith, leadership and their respective records ahead of the August 15 poll.
The latest exchange followed comments by the APC’s deputy governorship candidate, Benjamin Adereti, who questioned Governor Adeleke’s religious identity while presenting the party’s ticket as one that reflects religious balance.
Speaking during the 70th anniversary celebration of the Union Baptist Church in Osogbo, Adereti said the APC was not exploiting religion for political gain but had deliberately presented a governorship ticket that represents both major faiths. He noted that the party’s governorship candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, is a Muslim, while he serves as the Christian running mate, describing the arrangement as a clear demonstration of religious inclusiveness.
Adereti contrasted the APC ticket with that of the Accord Party, arguing that uncertainty surrounds Governor Adeleke’s religious affiliation. Addressing the congregation, he said the APC remained confident of victory in the August 15 governorship election, expressing optimism that Osun voters would support the party at the polls.
Governor Adeleke responded by shifting attention from religious identity to his administration’s record of service to the Muslim community.
Speaking during an engagement with Muslim leaders in Osogbo, the governor challenged the APC to compare its years in office with the achievements recorded under his administration. According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke maintained that his government has delivered more tangible benefits for Muslims than previous administrations.
Among the projects highlighted was the near-completion of the state’s Hajj camp, which he described as a long-overdue facility intended to improve pilgrimage arrangements for intending Muslim pilgrims. The governor argued that previous administrations had failed to provide the facility despite occupying office for several years.
Adeleke also pointed to the construction of a mosque within the Government House as another demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the Muslim community.
He stated that despite claims by previous governments of strong religious credentials, they did not establish such a place of worship while in office. The governor further noted that many of his principal officers and cabinet members are Muslims, adding that appointments under his administration have reflected fairness and inclusiveness across religious groups.
According to him, the impact of his administration should be assessed based on its actions rather than political rhetoric. He urged residents to evaluate leaders by their performance and contributions to the welfare of different communities instead of relying solely on declarations of religious identity.
The exchange adds to the growing intensity of campaigns ahead of the Osun governorship election, with political parties increasingly highlighting issues they believe will influence voters before the August 15 contest.
Religion has remained one of several subjects featuring in campaign debates, alongside governance, infrastructure, public services and economic development, as parties continue efforts to persuade the electorate. With campaigns entering a decisive phase, political observers expect parties to sustain vigorous engagements while voters weigh competing promises and records before casting their ballots.
