2027 Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi has congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, saying the result showed that “when the people stand, democracy wins.”
Obi, in a statement shared on social media on Sunday, August 16, said the people of Osun had spoken with “courage and clarity” by voting to retain Adeleke in office.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke the winner of Saturday’s governorship election after he secured 511,067 votes.
His closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), polled 444,815 votes.
Adeleke won 19 of the state’s 30 local government areas, while Oyebamiji won 11.
Obi, who described the result as an important democratic victory, said Adeleke had earned the people’s renewed confidence through his commitment, compassion and achievements in office.
“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate,” Obi said.
He said the Osun election showed that democracy is stronger when citizens are alert and ready to protect their votes.
“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.
Obi also used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to prepare for the 2027 general elections by participating actively in the electoral process and protecting their votes.
He said Nigerians facing hunger, insecurity, deprivation and hardship have the power through their votes to bring about change.
The 2027 presidential hopeful also urged political parties and their supporters to put the interests of Nigerians above political differences.
“Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service,” he said.
Obi called on Nigerians to remain committed to peace, unity and the rule of law, saying the Osun election should strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
