Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
A prominent former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has raised serious alarm over what he describes as credible threats to his life and personal security, allegedly linked to his public criticism of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s academic credentials. The allegations, which have sparked political tension in the southwestern Nigerian state, underscore escalating disputes in the run‑up to the pivotal 2026 governorship election.
Professor Rafiu Durodoye, a United States‑based academic and former APC gubernatorial hopeful, disclosed in statements to national security agencies that he has received threats following his critiques of Governor Adeleke’s educational background. Durodoye, a mathematics professor who had sought his party’s ticket ahead of the last election cycle, said his interventions were intended to prompt public debate about leadership qualifications and accountability. He has reportedly petitioned the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), seeking protection and investigation of the alleged threats.
The allegations have injected fresh controversy into an already charged political environment in Osun, where rival parties are jostling for influence ahead of the August 2026 governorship ballot. Governor Adeleke, first elected in 2022 and now seeking a second term, has been a polarising figure in state politics, with opponents scrutinising various aspects of his administration and public profile.
Osun’s political landscape has been marked by sustained competition between the ruling Accord Party, which fielded Adeleke this election cycle, and the opposition APC, which is determined to reclaim the state. The APC has criticised elements of Adeleke’s record in office, ranging from governance performance to intra‑party disagreements. Some factions within the APC have also used social and traditional media platforms to amplify concerns over perceived lapses in public policy and leadership credibility.
In this context, Durodoye’s latest claims have reverberated across political circles. Supporters of the former aspirant argue that his commentary falls well within the bounds of democratic expression and civic engagement. They contend that threats or intimidation against political voices — regardless of affiliation — undermine Nigeria’s democratic ethos and discourage robust debate on issues of public interest.
Conversely, some local observers suggest that the fallout reflects heightened sensitivities around the approaching election, in which Governor Adeleke’s incumbency and cross‑party appeal have unsettled sections of the APC. Political commentators note that disputes over qualifications and campaign rhetoric are not uncommon in competitive democracies, but they stress that allegations of threats to life must be thoroughly investigated by independent authorities to preserve confidence in the rule of law.
In his petition to federal security agencies, Durodoye reportedly requested not only protection but also a formal inquiry into those he believes are orchestrating the threats. He has framed his criticisms as legitimate political discourse, asserting that holding public office — especially one as significant as a governorship — invites scrutiny of a candidate’s educational and professional background.
Security analysts and civil society advocates have weighed in on the situation, urging authorities to treat the professor’s petition with due diligence. They argue that ensuring the safety of political actors is critical to upholding democratic participation. Should the allegations prove founded, the implications could extend beyond this episode, raising questions about the atmosphere of political engagement and the protection of dissenting voices in Nigeria’s evolving democratic framework.
The dispute comes amid broader campaign dynamics in Osun State. Adeleke’s tenure has been both praised and criticised, with supporters highlighting some achievements in education and health, and detractors pointing to areas they deem underperforming. Meanwhile, the APC has worked to consolidate its platforms and present alternative governance visions to the electorate.
Political strategists note that the governorship election — particularly following Adeleke’s transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Accord Party — has reshaped traditional party alignments in the state. These shifts have intensified competition among political elites and grassroots supporters alike, with each side endeavouring to mobilise constituencies around perceived strengths and weaknesses of prospective leaders.
Experts caution that while robust political debate is essential, it must be conducted within frameworks that safeguard personal security and respect legal norms. Threats or intimidation, if substantiated, could have a chilling effect on political participation and erode trust in electoral processes.
Durodoye’s allegations also highlight broader questions about freedom of expression and political accountability in Nigeria. As the country prepares for successive electoral cycles, including the 2027 general elections, maintaining an environment where political actors can critique, debate and engage without fear of reprisals is increasingly vital. Civil society organisations have urged authorities to ensure that security agencies uphold constitutional protections for all citizens, particularly in politically sensitive periods.
For now, the focus remains on how security agencies respond to the petition and whether independent investigations will be launched. The unfolding developments in Osun State underscore the challenges and stakes in Nigeria’s democratic journey — where competition for office, public scrutiny of leaders, and the safety of political participants intersect on the national stage.
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