OSOGBO, NIGERIA — Governor Ademola Adeleke has described his re-election in Saturday’s Osun State governorship election as a victory for democracy and the will of the people, expressing profound gratitude to residents for their overwhelming support at the polls.
Speaking in a video address following his official declaration as the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Sunday morning, the Accord Party candidate said the mandate reaffirmed the people’s trust in his leadership and vision for the state.
“This is not just my victory; it is a victory for democracy. It is a victory for the people of Osun State,” Adeleke said, his voice filled with emotion. “The people have spoken, and they have chosen progress over regression. They have chosen continuity over uncertainty. They have chosen light over darkness.”
Adeleke, who polled 534,066 votes to defeat his closest rival, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, who secured 492,425 votes, dedicated the win to the people of Osun, describing them as the true heroes of the election.
“Today, we celebrate not just an electoral victory but the triumph of the democratic spirit. The people of Osun came out in their numbers, stood in the rain, and defended their votes,” he said. “You have shown that power truly belongs to the people. I am deeply humbled and eternally grateful.”
The governor, who is fondly called “The Dancing Governor,” also thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission for conducting what he described as a free, fair, and credible election. He urged political opponents to accept the results in good faith and join hands with his administration to move the state forward.
“To my brothers and sisters in the APC and other political parties, I extend a hand of fellowship. This election is over, and the people have decided. Let us come together and build a prosperous Osun for all,” Adeleke appealed.
The governor also extended special appreciation to his nephew, Afrobeats superstar Davido, who actively campaigned for him throughout the election cycle. Adeleke described Davido’s support as “unwavering” and “instrumental” in galvanising youth support across the state.
The governor also thanked traditional rulers, religious leaders, market women, and youth groups for their contributions to the success of his campaign. “From the Obas to the market women, from students to artisans, you all stood firm. This victory is yours,” he said.
As celebrations erupted across Osogbo and other parts of the state, Adeleke assured residents that his second term would bring more development, including infrastructure upgrades, educational reforms, healthcare improvements, and economic empowerment programmes. “I will not rest. I will continue to work hard for our people,” he vowed.
The governor’s re-election cements his family’s political dynasty, following the legacy of his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke. His victory is also expected to strengthen the Accord Party’s influence in the South-West region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Earlier, Afrobeats star Davido, who had been actively involved in mobilising support for his uncle, took to social media to celebrate the outcome, declaring, “We did it!” The singer’s passionate involvement in the campaign had drawn significant attention to the election, particularly among young voters.
As the cheers of victory echoed through the streets of Osogbo, Governor Adeleke concluded his address with a message of hope and unity. “Osun has chosen light. Osun has chosen progress. And together, we will march into a brighter future. God bless Osun State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
