Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for reconciliation following his re-election, saying he expects his main challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, to call and congratulate him.
According to News Central TV, Adeleke spoke after he was declared winner of the governorship election, describing the outcome as a victory for democracy and an endorsement of his administration by the people of Osun State.
“I thank God Almighty for what has happened here today. It is a victory for democracy in Nigeria,” Adeleke said.
The governor said residents had rewarded his administration for what he described as improvements in infrastructure, education, agriculture and other areas.
He thanked voters for standing by him and promised to repay their confidence with more development during his second term.
Adeleke targets industrial transformation
Looking ahead, Adeleke said one of his major priorities would be transforming Osun from a state heavily dependent on the civil service into one with a stronger industrial base.
“My vision is to make sure Osun State moves from civil servant state to industrial state, and make sure all across Osun State development is on,” he said.
The governor repeatedly expressed appreciation to residents, saying the mandate would encourage his administration to intensify development across the state.
“I love you, Osun State. I love you, and I love you. Thank you,” Adeleke said.
Adeleke expects Oyebamiji’s call
Despite the keenly contested election, Adeleke said there should be no victor or vanquished and extended an olive branch to his opponents.
He specifically said he expected Oyebamiji to accept the outcome and congratulate him.
“This is no victor, no vanquished. I want them to come over, and I’m expecting Oyebamiji, as a civilised person, to call and congratulate me,” he said.
Adeleke also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had called to congratulate him on his victory.
“Mr. President has called me, and he has congratulated me. And thank you, Mr. President, for making sure democracy lives on, because we fought for it,” he said.
Asked whether he ever doubted that victory would come, Adeleke attributed the outcome to his faith.
“I have a God who never fails. I have a God who never fails. He never fails. He will never fail forevermore,” the governor said.
