The NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi has congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, describing the outcome as proof that “when the people stand, democracy wins.”
In a statement released Saturday, Obi said the people of Osun “spoke with courage and clarity,” and reaffirmed that the power to choose leaders belongs to citizens.
“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 said.
He singled out young voters for praise, noting their role in what he called a peaceful defense of the mandate.
“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 stated.
Obi framed the Osun result as a template for the 2027 general elections. He said 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 added.
Addressing the wider electorate, the former Anambra governor urged Nigerians to stay informed and participate fully.
“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 also called on political actors to prioritize public interest over party rivalry.
“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 said.
Obi closed with an appeal for national resolve: “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.”
Adeleke of the Accord Party was declared winner of the Osun governorship election, securing a second term.
