Obi Congratulates Adeleke on Osun Re-election, Says Victory Reflects People’s Will
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Aniebo Justice Nduwugwu
OSOGBO, OSUN STATE — The presidential candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, describing the outcome of the governorship election as a clear expression of the people’s will.
Obi, in a statement issued on Saturday, said Adeleke’s victory reflected what he described as the governor’s commitment, compassion and performance in office.
He also commended the people of Osun State, particularly youths who participated actively in the electoral process, for defending their votes peacefully.
According to him, the conduct of the electorate demonstrated the importance of citizens remaining vigilant and committed to protecting their democratic mandates.
Obi said the Osun election had once again shown that democracy could overcome anti-democratic forces when citizens remained determined to safeguard their votes through peaceful and lawful means.
He described the development as an important lesson for Nigeria as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, stressing that the survival of democracy depends largely on citizens being alert and ensuring that their votes count.
The former Anambra State governor maintained that every genuine vote must be respected and every lawful electoral mandate protected.
He urged Nigerians not to become passive participants in the democratic process, but to remain actively involved in elections and governance.
Obi further called on political actors across the country to place the interests of the people above personal and partisan considerations, while encouraging them to uphold peace and respect the rule of law.
He said elections should be centred on competing ideas, policies and the ability of candidates to provide quality leadership and service to the people rather than violence, intimidation or other forms of electoral malpractice.
The NDC presidential candidate expressed hope that the outcome of the Osun election would serve as an example for future elections and contribute to the development of a more just, accountable and people-centred Nigeria.
He said the participation of citizens in defending their democratic choices was essential to strengthening the country's democratic institutions.
Obi's comments come after the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election, which attracted significant political attention ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The election was closely watched by political parties, civil society groups and Nigerians across the country, with particular attention focused on voter participation, electoral integrity and the ability of citizens to protect their choices at the polling units and during the collation process.
For Obi, the Osun experience underscores the need for Nigerians to take greater ownership of the electoral process by participating actively, monitoring elections and insisting that the outcome reflects the genuine choice of voters.
He urged Nigerians to approach the 2027 elections with the same level of vigilance, while encouraging political leaders to embrace peaceful competition and respect democratic institutions.
The former governor said Nigeria's democratic future would be better secured when citizens, political parties and institutions collectively uphold the principles of free choice, accountability, peaceful participation and respect for the rule of law.
