Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Senator Ademola Adeleke on his re-election as governor of the state, urging him to use his renewed mandate to promote unity, inclusive governance and development.
Aregbesola, in a statement following the August 15, 2026 governorship election, said the people of Osun had spoken through the ballot and that their decision must be respected.
He urged Adeleke to view his re-election as a fresh opportunity to unite the state and govern with fairness, humility and a strong sense of responsibility to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
According to him, “The task before the governor is now greater than the contest that has just ended,” stressing that the next phase should focus on deepening development and moving the state forward.
Aregbesola also commended the people of Osun for their participation in the democratic process and appealed to political actors, supporters and citizens to embrace peace and unity.
Addressing members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Aregbesola thanked them for their steadfastness, courage and commitment throughout the election campaign.
He particularly praised their support for the party’s governorship candidate, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam, saying their loyalty was demonstrated through months of sacrifice, mobilisation, advocacy and peaceful participation in the electoral process.
Aregbesola described Salaam as a candidate who conducted himself with dignity and said his campaign reflected the ADC’s belief that politics should be centred on ideas, competence, character and service to the people.
He also commended Salaam for the maturity with which he accepted the election outcome, saying the candidate had placed the peace and unity of Osun above personal ambition.
While acknowledging that the election produced a different outcome from what the ADC had hoped for, Aregbesola said the party’s commitment to the future of Osun must not end with the conclusion of the election.
He urged ADC members, supporters, volunteers, campaigners, agents and well-wishers to remain proud of their efforts and continue to contribute positively to the state.
“Democracy is strengthened when political actors demonstrate the courage to compete vigorously, the humility and maturity to accept the people’s decision and the wisdom to continue contributing to society afterwards,” he said.
Aregbesola further called on the ADC family to preserve the relationships built during the campaign, engage constructively, speak for the people, hold government accountable and offer responsible alternatives where necessary.
He also urged Adeleke to extend “the hand of fellowship” to all political tendencies and make his second term one defined by greater inclusion, reconciliation and service to all.
To ADC members, he said the party must remain “united, disciplined and hopeful,” stressing that its commitment to good governance, accountability, justice, competence and service to the people remained relevant beyond the election.
Aregbesola concluded by wishing Adeleke wisdom, good health and success as he begins another term in office and continues to serve the people of Osun State.
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