Adebayo Olugbenga Adedamola has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the August 2026 election in Osun State.
This followed his victory in the party’s primary held in Osogbo on Tuesday.
Adedamola, popularly known among party members as FRYO, polled 919 votes out of 957 valid ballots at the primary conducted at Adolak Hall under tight security.
His victory came in the wake of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s dramatic resignation from the PDP, which reshaped the contest.
Although Adeleke’s name still appeared on the ballot, his withdrawal effectively cleared the path for Adedamola’s emergence. Party officials confirmed that the primary was monitored by security agencies and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Governor Adeleke had earlier announced his resignation from the PDP, citing unresolved leadership crises at the party’s national level. His exit raised uncertainty over the party’s chances in the 2026 governorship race, with many delegates shifting their support to Adedamola.
Adedamola’s candidacy is seen as a significant development within the PDP’s southwest bloc, with reports suggesting he enjoys backing from influential figures including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
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