Fake News: Bisi Akande Denies Opposition to Adeleke’s Defection to APC
Chief Bisi Akande, the First Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has firmly dismissed reports claiming he opposed the potential defection of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to the ruling party. The elder statesman labeled the circulating statement as entirely fabricated and not issued by him.
False Publication Circulated Online
Reports had surfaced on an undisclosed online platform (not Newdawnngr.com) alleging that Akande criticized Governor Adeleke’s speculated move to the APC as “dangerous, morally confusing, and strategically ill-advised.” However, the former Osun State governor has categorically denied authoring any such remarks.
“I have never issued any statement on this matter,” Akande stated. He attributed the false publication to desperate politicians seeking electoral advantage ahead of upcoming elections.
Akande Clarifies His Stance on Party Affairs
The APC chieftain further explained that for the past year, he has consistently directed those interested in Osun State’s governorship to consult with the current party leadership under Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, who previously served as the state’s governor.
Akande emphasized his current role as an elder statesman, noting that he has consciously stepped back from active partisanship. “As an elderly person and statesman, I’ve left party operations to the younger generation,” he affirmed.
Physical Absence Further Discredits Fake Statement
Adding credibility to his denial, Akande revealed he has been abroad for the past three weeks, making it impossible for him to have issued any recent statements regarding Osun State politics.
The incident highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in Nigeria’s political landscape, where fabricated statements are sometimes used to create divisions or influence public opinion ahead of elections.
Political Implications of the False Report
The circulation of this fake statement comes at a sensitive time in Osun State politics, as speculation grows about potential realignments ahead of future elections. Governor Adeleke, currently of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has not officially confirmed any plans to defect to the APC.
Political analysts suggest that such false reports may be attempts to either discourage potential defections or create artificial divisions within the APC ranks in Osun State.
Call for Media Responsibility
This incident underscores the need for media outlets to verify statements attributed to prominent figures before publication. The spread of misinformation can unnecessarily heat up the political atmosphere and create confusion among party members and the general public.
As the 2026 governorship election in Osun State approaches, political observers expect more such controversies to emerge, making fact-checking and responsible journalism increasingly crucial.
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