Obi and Saraki extend congratulations to Adeleke over his successful re-election bid

Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have extended congratulations to Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his successful re-election bid.

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Adeleke's victory was formally announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Sunday, after he garnered 511,067 votes across the state in the governorship election held on Saturday.

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The declaration was made by the State Returning Officer, Prof Joshua Ogunwole, at approximately 7:24am on Sunday, confirming Adeleke of the Accord Party as the winner.

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In a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, Obi acknowledged the election as a demonstration of the people's power to choose their leaders, and he warmly congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election.

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Obi commended the people of Osun for speaking with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to them, and he also praised Osun youths for peacefully defending their democratic mandate.

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The outcome of the election, according to Obi, offers valuable lessons ahead of the 2027 general election, emphasizing that democracy is strongest when citizens are alert and determined to ensure their votes count.

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Obi urged Nigerians to participate actively in the 2027 elections, protect their votes, and called on political actors to prioritize the interests of the people and embrace peace and the rule of law.

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He emphasized that elections should be contests of ideas, competence, character, and service, rather than battles of violence, and expressed his hope that the Osun experience would strengthen confidence in the democratic process.

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Saraki, in a separate statement on his X handle, described Adeleke's re-election as a vote of confidence in his administration, congratulating his dear brother and friend on his re-election as Governor of Osun State.

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Saraki noted that the people of Osun have spoken clearly, judging Adeleke's record of stewardship over the past four years and asking him to continue, and he commended Osun residents for voting and defending their votes.

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The former Senate President viewed Adeleke's re-election as an important victory for democracy, particularly at a time when there are concerns about the strength and credibility of democratic institutions.

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Saraki urged Adeleke to use his second term to consolidate his administration's achievements and justify the renewed mandate, wishing him well and trusting that he would leave behind a stronger and more prosperous state.

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Adeleke's closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, polled 444,815 votes and won 11 of the state's 30 local government areas, while the ADC candidate, Najeem Salaam, came third with 17,180 votes.