Osun poll: Ikubese congratulates Adeleke, advises against legal tussles

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— Cautions Igboho over political rallies

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By Dayo Johnson, Akure

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Former presidential aspirant and convener of the YesWeFit Revolutionary Movement, Dr Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in Osun State, urging other candidates to work with him for the progress of the state rather than pursue legal battles.

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In a statement issued in Akure, Ondo State capital, Ikubese said the election result reflected the aspirations of the people of Osun State and should not be unnecessarily challenged.

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“I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory as declared by INEC in his re-election bid,” he said.

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He added that the outcome validated his long-held view that “rigging an election will be a difficult task if the people come out en masse to vote for their candidates and are ready to stand by their votes.”

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Ikubese commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for allowing the will of the people of Osun to prevail, while urging the commission to improve on the process in future elections.

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He also congratulated the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) candidate, Dr Saliu Oyelami, whom he described as his “friend and professional colleague” who made a good showing in the election.

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“I admonish him to share his visions with Governor Adeleke for the progress of the state,” Ikubese said.

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The activist also appealed to Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, to be cautious about making public appearances at political rallies, warning that such involvement could cause his Iru Ekun security outfit to be perceived as partisan.

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Ikubese urged Adeleke to reach out to all other candidates, foster unity and encourage them to share their manifestos for the overall development of Osun State.

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“He should get back to work immediately and fulfil his electoral promises to the people of Osun State,” he said.

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He also called on Nigerians to always come out to vote and reject the notion that their votes would not count, noting that “manipulation of results will be a Herculean task in the presence of overwhelming votes.”

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