The Imole Movement Outgrows PDP Turmoil: A New Direction Is Inevitable

A political party is, in many ways, a vehicle. One of Its primary purpose is to convey a candidate to the desired destination: elective office. And like every traveler, a political actor has the right, and indeed the responsibility, to choose the vehicle most capable of completing the journey.

We have all seen travelers reject a particular vehicle because it appears too old, too slow, or too unreliable to complete the trip efficiently. And more importantly, even when a traveler has already boarded a vehicle and it suddenly develops mechanical, electrical, or structural faults, common sense demands that he disembark and seek a safer, more reliable alternative.

This analogy perfectly captures the current situation between Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The PDP was the vehicle that successfully transported the Imole movement to Abeere in 2022, the Governor embarked on the journey with a party that seemed stable and functional. But today, as the 2026 destination draws near, that political vehicle has suffered a total breakdown.

The tyres are flat with no replacements in sight, the engine has knocked due to internal negligence and sabotage, and the party as currently structured has become incapable of moving anybody forward.

The Osun people, however, are already gathered at the destination, eagerly waiting to speak with their thumbs come August 8, 2026. Time is ticking, and waiting.

The real question before us is: What should Governor Adeleke do in these circumstances? And just as importantly: Will the people follow him if he chooses a different, more viable platform?

Recent statewide survey findings by the Imole Independent Support Forum (IISF) provide a clear and decisive answer.

62.2% of respondents stated they would vote for Imole regardless of the political party he contests under.

26.7% said they would support him but not under the APC.

11.1% expressed neutrality.

These numbers confirm a political reality: Governor Adeleke commands a unique, organic followership strong enough to win the 2026 election even with zero party structure. This is an extraordinary asset, and it is one he must deploy wisely and timely.

The Governor must therefore carefully review the available political platforms and avoid parties battling their own internal crises, so as not to move from frying pan to fire. Stability, cohesion, and readiness must guide his choice of vehicle for the 2026 journey.

Respondents in the IISF survey consistently emphasized one reason for their unwavering support: Governor Adeleke’s exceptional performance in office. His governance has delivered results, touched lives, expanded infrastructure, and restored hope. The people do not want this progress interrupted; they want the good work to continue unhindered.

The truth is undeniable: Imole is no longer just a political slogan, it has become a people-driven movement.

And movements, unlike parties, do not break down on the road. They find new roads, new vehicles, and new strength to reach their destination.

References abound in this regard. History was kind to Alex Otti when assured of the support of the people he dumped the APC and joined the relatively unpopular Labour Party barely 10 months to the Abia Gober election. Otti wasn’t even a governor then, but he has the biggest political asset; the support of the people.

There is also the case of Gov Ortom of Benue, as a sitting Governor, Ortom jumped ship from the All Progressive Congress to the Peoples Democratic Party 8 months before the general election, he won.

The common factor for these Governors that left for a new platform is that they had the support and trust of the people and they built on it, they galvanized the people and the people rewarded them with their votes

The Imole Movement has outgrown the confines of a party in disarray. It has become a mandate of the people: fierce, loyal, resilient, and ready to follow their Governor anywhere he chooses to stand. The 2026 election is not about party colours; it is about continuity, stability, and the protection of the progress already achieved under his leadership.

Comrade Ebby Oluwasegun Ige
Director Media (IISF)