Barely a week after the unveiling of the Aregbesola Democratic Alliance (ADA), a new political coalition formed by prominent figures dissatisfied with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Osun State chapter is already facing internal turmoil as loyalists of former Interior Minister, Engr. Rauf Aregbesola, battle for the 2026 governorship ticket.
The ADA, widely seen as a political alternative led by heavyweights including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Aregbesola, was launched to challenge the existing power structure ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the coalition’s cohesion is already under threat, with fresh cracks emerging among its key stakeholders in Osun.
Top political figures within Aregbesola’s camp have begun open jockeying for the governorship ticket, setting the stage for a power struggle that could fracture the alliance. Those in the race include:
• Rt. Hon. Najeem Salaam, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly (Ejigbo)
• Senator Adelere Oriolowo, former Senator representing Osun West (Iwo)
• Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, former Secretary to the State Government
• Barr. Gbenga Akano, former assistant Chief of Staff to Aregbesola (Iragbiji)
Insider sources confirmed that Aregbesola is believed to be quietly backing Barrister Akano, a trusted former aide, sparking unease among other aspirants and their supporters.
“There is a growing perception that Akano has Aregbesola’s blessing, and that’s already causing friction,” a senior party official told this reporter under condition of anonymity. “This early scramble is not just unhealthy, it’s dangerous for a coalition that hasn’t found its footing yet.”
The dispute reportedly escalated during a closed door strategy meeting in Osogbo on Sunday night, where tempers flared over issues of zoning, internal democracy, and perceived favoritism.
Political observers say the unfolding drama in Osun is an early test of the ADA’s internal discipline and long term viability.
“This coalition was built on political discontent, not ideology. If they can’t manage ambition within a week , it casts doubt on their ability to present a serious challenge in 2026 or 2027,” said political analyst Dr. Tunde Ojo.
While Aregbesola has remained publicly silent, his next move is expected to be decisive. Many within the alliance believe he must step in quickly to restore order and prevent a full-blown crisis that could cost the coalition its credibility in Osun, one of its key battleground states.
As the political landscape in Osun begins to shift, the ADA’s ability to survive its first major internal conflict may determine whether it becomes a true political force or just another fleeting alliance built on personal ambition and unresolved grudges.