Africa-Press – Nigeria. Residents across Osun State have expressed concern following the intensifying war of words between Governor Ademola Adeleke and the immediate past Minister of Interior and former Osun governor, Rauf Aregbesola.
The confrontation, which began after Aregbesola reportedly threatened to oust Adeleke in the 2026 elections, has escalated rapidly.
Governor Adeleke’s administration responded fiercely on Monday, accusing Aregbesola of leaving a legacy of suffering, debt and destruction in Osun during his tenure from 2010 to 2018.
Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, described Aregbesola’s rule as the worst in Osun history, alleging that the former governor inflicted evil policies that led to half salary payments and a massive pension debt.
In response, Aregbesola’s political group, The Omoluabi Progressives, defended the former governor’s record, describing the debts as strategic investments made under difficult economic circumstances.
The group said the public reaction during Aregbesola’s recent homecoming in Osogbo showed continued love and support.
However, the developments have left many Osun residents who bared their minds with DAILY POST confused and taken aback.
“I never thought I would see Adeleke and Aregbesola at such loggerheads. They used to work closely. It’s shocking,” said Kehinde Ajani, a civil servant in Ede.
Sherifat Adewumi, an Ilesa-based trader added, “It’s difficult to know who to believe. One side says Osun is recovering from disaster, the other says they were wrongly blamed. We, the people, are caught in between.”
Others voiced frustration at the politicisation of governance.
“They’re both wasting energy on attacks and counterattacks instead of working for the people. It is a distraction,” said Paul Oloyede, a pensioner in Osogbo who claimed to have waited years for his unpaid benefits.
The clash has also reignited discussions about Aregbesola’s legacy.
While Adeleke’s government claims to have paid off N60 billion in pension debts and 28 months of unpaid salaries, the Omoluabi Progressives argued that many of the debts were inherited and the projects delivered were long-term assets.
An Ife-based teacher, Adenike Olatunji, said, “We remember the hardship under Aregbesola. No full salaries for months. But it is also true that he built schools and roads. It is not black and white.”
A political observer, Steven Oladunjoye said the rift could reshape Osun’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
He said, “This is not just about old grievances. It is a clear signal that alliances are shifting.”
Another resident, Olabode Alamu called on both leaders to de-escalate and focus on governance.
“We need unity, not division. Our future is at stake. We are watching closely as events unravel in the public eye.
“This disagreement raises fresh questions about loyalty, legacy, and relationships,” he said.
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