NIGERIA – Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, describing the outcome as a demonstration of the power of citizens to determine their leaders through the ballot.
Obi, in a statement posted on his official X account on Sunday, August 16, said the people of Osun State had “spoken with courage and clarity” by reaffirming their right to choose their leaders.
He attributed Adeleke’s victory to what he described as the governor’s commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and achievements in office.
Election Results and Commendation for Youth
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke, the Accord Party candidate, the winner of the August 15 governorship election after he secured 511,067 votes. His closest challenger, All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji, polled 444,815 votes.
Adeleke won in 19 of Osun State’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji won 11.
Obi particularly commended young people in the state, whom he said had peacefully defended their democratic mandate.
According to him, the Osun election demonstrated that citizens could protect the integrity of their votes when they remained vigilant and committed to their civic responsibilities.
“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.”
Call for Political Engagement and Appeal to Political Actors
Obi used the outcome to call on Nigerians to remain politically engaged ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged citizens to remain informed, participate actively in elections, and protect their votes, arguing that Nigerians experiencing economic hardship, insecurity, and deprivation also possess the power to demand change through the ballot.
The former Anambra governor also appealed to political actors to place the interests of Nigerians above partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law.
He said elections should not become contests marked by violence but should instead focus on “ideas, competence, character, and service.”
Obi concluded by expressing hope that the Osun election would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process and encourage citizens to work towards a “just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation.”
“A New Nigeria is POssible,” he said.
