SUN AUG 16 2026-theGBJournal| Peter Obi, NDC presidential candidate and former Anambra governor, has congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, describing the election outcome result as a demonstration of the power of voters to defend democracy.
Under the headline “Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins,” Obi said the people of Osun had “spoken with courage and clarity”, reaffirming that the power to choose leaders ultimately belonged to citizens.
“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory. They – Osun people – have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people.”
Obi attributed Adeleke’s victory to the governor’s relationship with voters and his record in office.
“Through his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements in office, Governor Adeleke has earned their renewed confidence and been entrusted once again with their mandate.”
He particularly praised young voters who remained engaged throughout the election and what he described as the peaceful defence of their mandate.
“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate. Their vigilance and determination demonstrate that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness.”
For Obi, the broader significance of the election lies in voter vigilance and participation, with the Osun experience offering a template for 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. Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected.”
He urged Nigerians to carry that lesson into the next presidential election.
“This is also a clarion call as we approach 2027. Nigerians must remain informed, participate actively, vote, and protect their votes.”
Obi linked voter mobilisation directly to Nigeria’s economic and social pressures, arguing that citizens suffering from hardship also possess the ultimate electoral power to demand change.
“The Nigerian people are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity, and hardship; therefore, they are also the ones with the power, through their votes, to bring about the change that will end these conditions.”
He also called on political parties and candidates to avoid violence and put the electorate ahead of partisan interests.
“I urge all political actors to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law. Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service.”
Obi concluded that the Osun election should strengthen public confidence in democratic participation and encourage Nigerians to remain engaged ahead of 2027.
“May the Osun experience strengthen our confidence in the democratic process and inspire Nigerians everywhere to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation.”
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