Rauf Aregbesola, the interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has said that his party will unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming 2026 Osun governorship election.

Aregbesola, who previously held the positions of Minister of Interior and Osun State Governor, made this statement on Sunday during a homecoming event held in Osogbo.

He emphasized that his main political objective at the moment is not the 2027 general election but securing victory for ADC in the 2026 Osun governorship election.

He suggested that the 2026 election might not feature the usual three-party race, as there are speculations that Governor Adeleke could defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

We are concerned about 2026 in Osun State. We have started the work for next year’s election now, Aregbesola said, encouraging party members to strengthen mobilisation at the grassroots level.

Leave them to their agitation. Our aim should be to take over Osun State before the vote on August 8, 2026. They already know they are on their way out.

Looking back on his break with the APC, a party he helped build, Aregbesola expressed regret that he was sidelined despite his efforts.

He stated, Those who know my value and worth gave me this new position, and now they are making noise. Their noise doesn’t concern me — they haven’t seen anything yet.

Aregbesola also spoke on the ongoing rumours surrounding Adeleke’s possible political defection: Before we started this journey, they said there would be three political parties in Osun State. It is obvious he is decamping now. We will meet in Abere — ADC will win the Osun governorship race in 2026.

Turning to national matters, Aregbesola criticised the current federal government, blaming it for worsening the economic situation in the country.

The government that makes Nigerians go hungry should not be in power again. Anyone who says Nigeria is better now is part of the problem. It’s clear that yesterday was better than today for us as a nation, he said. Since they assumed office, even the rain no longer falls as it used to. Things are not going well. We must be angry with any government that refuses to address our needs.

Legislative proceedings in the national assembly have been put on hold to pay respect to Muhammadu Buhari, the former president of Nigeria.

Buhari passed away on Sunday at a London clinic after battling a long-term illness.

The clerk of the national assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, shared this update through a statement released on Monday.

“I am directed by the president of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives to inform all members of the national assembly and the general public that all legislative activities are hereby suspended immediately until Tuesday, 22 July, 2025,” the statement reads.

“All members of the national assembly are urged to reschedule their engagements to enable full participation in the burial activities of the late president.”

Leaders of both legislative chambers offered their sympathies to the government and citizens of Nigeria, the administration and residents of Katsina state, as well as the late president’s wives, children, and extended relatives.

“President Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and his integrity,” the statement notes.

“May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.”

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, has expressed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing it as a profound loss for both the Buhari family and the entire nation of Nigeria.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Dave Agboola, Speaker Obasa reflected on President Buhari’s lifelong dedication and selfless service to the nation both as a military Head of State and as a two-term elected President of Nigeria.

“President Buhari served our nation with a commitment that will be remembered as a significant part of our history.
“His contributions to the development and unity of Nigeria have left an indelible mark on our country,” said Obasa.

As the nation mourns his passing, Speaker Obasa emphasised the importance of celebrating Buhari’s legacy. “While we grieve his loss, we must also honour his contributions and reflect on the values he championed throughout his time in Office,” he added.

The Speaker urged all Nigerians to take a moment to remember the life and work of President Buhari, as the country continues to strive for the ideals he represented. “Let us come together in this time of sorrow, united in our commitment to building the Nigeria he envisioned,” Obasa stated.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who were touched by his leadership. May his soul rest in peace.”