Former Minister of Police Affairs, Jelili Adesiyan, has stirred fresh political debate in Osun State after claiming that real power in the state does not lie with Governor Ademola Adeleke, but with his elder brother, billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke.
Speaking during an interview on state affairs with Edmund Obilo, Adesiyan alleged that Deji Adeleke is the actual force directing the affairs of Osun State, bluntly describing him as the “real governor.”
“Deji Adeleke is the governor. Who is Ademola Adeleke? Can that one become governor?” Adesiyan said. “Deji is the one in charge.”
The former minister argued that Deji Adeleke’s political influence in Osun did not begin with the current administration. According to him, the billionaire businessman had long played a dominant role in the state’s politics, even during the era of his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who once governed Osun State.
“I served under his brother when he was in government. I knew the influence Deji wielded over his senior brother,” Adesiyan stated, suggesting a pattern of behind-the-scenes control within the Adeleke political dynasty.
Adesiyan further described Deji Adeleke as a powerful capitalist whose wealth and business interests allegedly give him deep reach within Osun’s political structure. He claimed this influence now overshadows the authority of the sitting governor, raising questions about who truly calls the shots in the state.
The remarks have since sparked conversations among political observers and residents, with many debating the extent of Deji Adeleke’s influence and what it means for governance and accountability in Osun State.
