The Osun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Adedamola Adebayo, popularly known as FRYO, has withdrawn from the August 15, 2026, governorship election and declared support for the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke.
Adebayo announced his decision on Wednesday during a press conference in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, less than 72 hours before the election.
Following his withdrawal from the race, Adebayo called on PDP members, his supporters and political groups working with him across Osun State to support Adeleke and vote for him in Saturday’s election.
He said the decision followed consultations with political stakeholders and a careful review of the situation in the state.
According to him, his decision was based on what he believes is best for Osun State rather than his personal political ambition.
Adebayo said he understood that the decision might not be accepted by all his supporters, but asked them to respect his position and the different views that could arise from it.
He also said he had informed party leaders, members and other stakeholders about his decision before making it public.
The former PDP candidate urged his supporters to work for Adeleke’s re-election despite the change in political direction.
His decision comes as political parties and their candidates intensify efforts to secure votes ahead of the closely watched governorship election.
Adebayo also appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to avoid violence, threats, intimidation, hate speech and other actions that could cause unrest during the election period.
He called on politicians to place the interests of Osun State above personal ambitions and party loyalty, noting that the people and communities would remain after the election had ended.
The former candidate further urged residents and political actors to protect peace across the state and allow voters to exercise their rights without fear.
He expressed appreciation to those who supported his campaign and stood by him throughout his political journey.
Adebayo said his decision to support Adeleke did not erase the relationships and experiences he had gained during the campaign.
