Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in Osun State. Obi said the outcome demonstrated that the people of Osun had spoken with courage and clarity while exercising their democratic right to choose their leader.
The former governor made the remarks in a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday. In the statement titled “Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins,” Obi said Adeleke had secured renewed confidence from voters through his administration’s performance and commitment to the people.
“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory,” he said.
According to Obi, the result reaffirmed the principle that political authority ultimately belongs to the people. He said Adeleke’s commitment, compassion and achievements in office had contributed to his renewed mandate.
Obi particularly commended young people in Osun State for what he described as their peaceful defence of their democratic mandate. He said their vigilance demonstrated the influence citizens could have when they actively protect their votes.
“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate,” Obi said.
He argued that the Osun election victory offered an important lesson about citizen participation. According to him, democracy becomes stronger when voters remain informed, conscious of their civic responsibilities and determined to ensure that their votes are counted. Obi stressed that every legitimate vote should be respected and every lawful electoral mandate protected.
The NDC presidential candidate said the development should also serve as a reminder to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections. He urged citizens to remain informed, participate actively in elections and protect their votes.
Obi linked active political participation to the power of Nigerians to influence the conditions affecting their daily lives. He noted that Nigerians were directly experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity and economic hardship. The former governor said citizens therefore possessed the electoral power to demand changes capable of addressing those challenges.
Obi also called on political actors to place the interests of Nigerians above partisan considerations. He urged candidates and political parties to embrace peace, unity and respect for the rule of law. According to him, elections should not become battles fought through violence. Rather, he said political contests should focus on ideas, competence, character and service to the people.
The former governor expressed hope that the Osun election victory would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process. He also said the experience should encourage citizens across the country to remain vigilant and committed to building a nation that is just, secure, prosperous and centred on the interests of its people.
“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,” Obi said.
