The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed reports that Governor Ademola Adeleke attacked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the South-West Summit held in Akure, Ondo State.

The party described the claim, allegedly sponsored by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), as a “malicious fabrication” by the APC’s spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, whom it accused of spreading falsehood for political gain.

In a statement signed by the PDP’s Director of Media, Hezekiah Oladele Bamiji, the party said at no point did Governor Adeleke or his representative make disparaging remarks about the President during the regional meeting.

“Throughout the speech at Akure, there was never an attack on Mr President,” the statement read. “The governor merely outlined Osun’s experience in intergovernmental relations, including challenges in managing local government elections and funds.”

According to the PDP, the governor’s remarks were factual observations about the workings of federal-state relations and not political attacks. The party said the summit, which focused on the relationship between the centre and subnational governments, provided a platform for honest discussions on governance.

“The presentation highlighted efforts of the Osun government to strengthen its relationship with the Federal Government and identified areas of both progress and concern,” the PDP noted. “It is mischievous for the APC to twist these facts.”

The party further described Olabisi as an “ingrate” who has chosen to malign the Adeleke family despite years of association and benefaction.

“Governor Adeleke has demonstrated deep respect for President Tinubu,” the statement added. “Discussing governance issues affecting Osun State does not amount to an attack on the President.”

The PDP urged the public to disregard what it called “fake news from desperate opposition elements,” reiterating that Governor Adeleke’s remarks were made in the spirit of Yoruba values of respect and truthfulness.