Osogbo, December 15, 2025** – Former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salam, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2026 Osun State election.
Salam, the sole aspirant in the primary election held on Monday, was unanimously affirmed by delegates. The primary election committee chairman, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, declared him the party’s flagbearer, stating: “By the powers conferred on this panel by the constitution of the ADC, I hereby announce that the candidate-elect and now candidate and flagbearer of the ADC for the Osun 2026 governorship election is Najeem Folasayo Salam.
The development resolves earlier internal controversies within the party, including disputes over consensus arrangements and the exit of former Secretary to the Osun State Government, Moshood Adeoti, who had expressed interest in the ticket.
Salam’s emergence has been linked to the influence of ADC National Secretary and former Osun Governor, Rauf Aregbesola. The former Speaker, a seasoned politician, previously served during the administration of Aregbesola and brings significant legislative experience to the contest.
The Osun governorship election is scheduled for August 8, 2026, with other parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Accord Party (fielding incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke), already selecting their candidates.
Political analysts view Salam’s candidacy as strengthening the ADC’s position in Osun, potentially positioning the party as a key contender amid shifting alliances.
