Deji Adeleke, businessman and elder brother of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) spent about the sum of N60 billion on vote-buying during the August 15, 2026 Osun governorship election.
Adeleke made the claim in a viral video while reflecting on the outcome of the election, which saw his younger brother, Governor Ademola Adeleke, secure a second term in office.
According to him, reports that voters were allegedly being offered as much as N50,000 for their votes prompted him to retreat to his room and pray for his brother’s victory.
He said, “The only reason why we defeated Oyetola is not that we are bigger or that we spent more money than him. On election day, we didn’t spend any money.
“They spent 60 billion, as we heard. In some places, they bought most votes for as high as ₦50,000 for a single vote.
“On the day of the election, when I heard the kind of money they were spending, I went back to my little corner in my room, and I knelt down and I prayed to God.
“I said, ‘God Almighty, let people collect their money, but let them still vote for Ademola Adeleke.’”
Adeleke, who attributed his confidence during the election to his faith in God, said he regularly turns to the Bible for strength and guidance.
He specifically cited Isaiah 41:10, saying his belief in God had made him fearless and less concerned about seeking the backing of powerful individuals.
“When I need God to pray every day, I have some Bible passages and verses that I read and that I pray with. And this is part of my testimony,” he said.
He added, “Because I believe my belief in God Almighty is very strong.”
The businessman also said his faith had discouraged him from seeking influence or patronage from powerful figures, noting that he preferred to rely on prayer.
“That’s why you don’t see me running after people in high places or competing with people to go and visit anyone.
“I would rather do it in my little corner. I would rather ask God Almighty to help me,” he said.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday declared Governor Ademola Adeleke winner of the election, polled 511,067 votes to defeat the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, who secured 444,815 votes.
Adeleke won in 19 of the state’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji prevailed in 11.
About the Author
