Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi have extended their congratulations to Governor Ademola Adeleke following his successful re-election in the Osun State gubernatorial poll. The two prominent opposition figures, in separate reactions shared on their official X accounts, lauded the outcome, emphasizing the power of the electorate and the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Atiku Abubakar Highlights People’s Choice
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general election, conveyed his felicitations, describing Governor Adeleke’s victory as a clear affirmation of the Osun people’s choice at the ballot box. “I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election as Governor of Osun State. His victory demonstrates the choice of the people of Osun as expressed at the ballot box,” Atiku stated.
He further commended the state’s citizens for their fervent and peaceful participation throughout the electoral exercise, wishing Governor Adeleke continued success in his second term as he serves the populace.
Peter Obi Champions Citizen Vigilance
Labour Party chieftain Peter Obi echoed the congratulatory sentiments, titling his reaction “Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins.” Obi underscored the election’s significance as a vivid illustration of citizens’ capacity to determine their leadership. He attributed Adeleke’s renewed mandate to his demonstrated performance and commitment, which garnered renewed confidence from the electorate. Obi specifically praised the proactive role of young voters in diligently safeguarding their democratic mandate.
“The lesson from Osun is clear: democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibility, and determined to ensure that their votes count,” Obi remarked, stressing the importance of active civic engagement. He called on Nigerians to maintain this level of involvement in upcoming general elections by ensuring they register, vote, and protect their ballots. Obi also urged political stakeholders to prioritize public interest and embrace peaceful conduct, asserting that “Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service.”
Official Election Results
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared Governor Ademola Adeleke as the winner, having secured a total of 511,067 votes. He triumphed over his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 444,815 votes.