Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke following his victory in Saturday’s governorship election.
According to The Punch, the two political leaders issued separate messages on Sunday after the Independent National Electoral Commission declared Adeleke winner with 511,067 votes.
Obi described the Adeleke re-election as an important victory for democracy, saying Osun residents had demonstrated their ability to determine who governs them.
“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory,” Obi said.
“They have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people.”
Obi praises Osun voters
The former Anambra State governor commended young people in Osun for peacefully defending their votes and said the election offered lessons ahead of the 2027 general election.
“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,” he said.
“Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected.”
Obi urged Nigerians to remain actively involved in the democratic process and called on politicians to embrace peaceful competition, the rule of law and issues-based campaigns.
“Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service,” he added.
Saraki calls result vote of confidence
Saraki also congratulated Adeleke, describing the election outcome as a renewed vote of confidence in the governor’s administration.
“I congratulate my dear brother and friend, Governor Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election as Governor of Osun State,” Saraki said.
“The people of Osun have spoken, and they have spoken clearly. They have had four years to judge the record of his stewardship, to weigh the promises against the performance, and they have asked him to continue.”
The former Senate President praised residents for participating in the election and remaining vigilant throughout the process.
He said elections where votes are freely cast, accurately counted and respected are important for strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Saraki urged Adeleke to use his renewed mandate to consolidate the achievements of his first term and leave Osun stronger and more prosperous.
Adeleke defeated APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji, who polled 444,815 votes, while African Democratic Congress candidate Najeem Salaam finished third with 17,180 votes.
