The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in the Osun State governorship election, describing it as a significant democratic achievement.
Obi, in a statement titled “Osun: When The People Stand, Democracy Wins” and signed by his spokesperson, Idris Zekeri Jnr, said the outcome of the poll proved that democracy triumphs when citizens resolve to defend their mandate.
According to him, Osun voters spoke with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose leaders belongs to the people. He said Adeleke’s renewed mandate reflected the governor’s commitment to the people, compassion for their needs and the strength of his achievements in office.
The former governor of Anambra State particularly commended youths in the state for their conduct during the election, praising what he described as their courageous and peaceful defence of their democratic mandate.
“Their vigilance and determination demonstrated that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness,” Obi said.
He said the key lesson from Osun is that democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, aware of their civic responsibilities and determined to ensure that their votes count.
“Every genuine vote must be respected and every lawful mandate upheld,” he stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Obi urged Nigerians to go beyond voting on election day to actively participate in the democratic process.
He called on citizens to stay informed, participate actively, vote and, most importantly, protect their votes.
“Nigerians are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity and hardship and, therefore, hold the power – through their votes – to bring about the change necessary to address these challenges,” he said.
Obi also charged political actors to prioritise the interests of the people over partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity and the rule of law, noting that elections should not be battles of violence but contests of ideas, competence, character and service.
He expressed hope that the Osun experience would restore confidence in the electoral process and inspire citizens nationwide to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous and people-centred nation.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday declared Adeleke winner of the Osun governorship election with 511,067 votes to defeat the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji, who polled 444,815 votes.
