OSOGBO, NIGERIA — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election as Osun State Governor, describing the victory as a true reflection of the people’s will.
In a statement issued on Sunday shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission declared Adeleke the winner of the August 15 governorship election, Atiku praised the people of Osun for exercising their democratic rights peacefully and reaffirming their choice through the ballot box.
“The victory of Governor Ademola Adeleke at the polls is a clear testament to the trust and confidence the good people of Osun State have in his leadership and vision,” Atiku said. “It reflects their choice and their desire for continuity, progress, and good governance.”
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 general election, commended the electoral process and urged all stakeholders to accept the outcome in the spirit of sportsmanship. He called on the All Progressives Congress and other political parties to respect the will of the people and work towards the development of the state.
“Democracy is about the will of the people, and the people of Osun have spoken,” Atiku added. “I urge all parties involved to accept the results and join hands with Governor Adeleke to move Osun State forward.”
The former vice president also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission for conducting what he described as a largely peaceful and transparent election, despite isolated reports of irregularities. He encouraged INEC to continue strengthening Nigeria’s electoral processes and to remain vigilant in upholding the integrity of future polls.
Atiku’s congratulatory message was among several tributes that poured in for Adeleke following his declaration as the winner. The governor secured 534,066 votes to defeat APC’s Bola Oyebamiji, who polled 492,425 votes. Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress came third with 21,604 votes.
The former vice president concluded his message with prayers for the governor and the people of Osun, expressing optimism that Adeleke’s second term would bring greater development and prosperity to the state.
