Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, describing the outcome of the governorship election as an affirmation of the people’s democratic mandate.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, also commended the people of Osun State, particularly youths, for what he described as a courageous and peaceful defence of their votes.
“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory. They – Osun people – have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor said Adeleke’s performance in office earned him the renewed confidence of the electorate.
“Through his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements in office, Governor @AAdeleke_01 has earned their renewed confidence and been entrusted once again with their mandate,” Obi stated.
Obi particularly praised young people in Osun for their role in protecting the electoral process, saying their vigilance demonstrated the power of citizens to safeguard democracy.
“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate. Their vigilance and determination demonstrate that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness,” he said.
He said the election had underscored the importance of civic responsibility and voter vigilance in ensuring that electoral mandates are respected.
“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. Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected,” he said.
Obi also urged Nigerians to remain politically engaged ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling on citizens to participate actively and protect their votes.
“This is also a clarion call as we approach 2027. Nigerians must remain informed, participate actively, vote, and protect their votes. The Nigerian people are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity, and hardship; therefore, they are also the ones with the power, through their votes, to bring about the change that will end these conditions,” Obi said.
He further appealed to political actors to prioritise the interests of Nigerians and embrace peaceful and credible elections.
“I urge all political actors to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law. Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service,” he added.
Obi expressed hope that the Osun election would strengthen Nigerians’ confidence in democracy and encourage citizens to remain committed to building a better country.
“May the Osun experience strengthen our confidence in the democratic process and inspire Nigerians everywhere to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO,” he said.
