Osun Decides 2026: Adeleke declares victory a triumph for democracy

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State celebrated his re-election victory, calling it a triumph for democracy and the state's residents. The Independent National Electoral Commission declared Adeleke the winner on Sunday after he secured 19 of the 30 local government areas in the governorship poll held Saturday.

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I feel great. First of all, I thank God Almighty for what has happened today. It’s a victory for democracy in Nigeria. A victory for Osun people that stood by me and said, Imole, you have done a lot for us. You have given us dividend of democracy in terms of infrastructure, improving our education, agriculture, and so forth. So this is for Osun people saying, thank you, Mr Governor.

Adeleke expressed gratitude to God and the people of Osun, stating they recognized his administration's work. "Imole, you have done a lot for us. You have given us dividend of democracy in terms of infrastructure, improving our education, agriculture, and so forth," he said in a video shared by TVC News. "So this is for Osun people saying, thank you, Mr Governor."

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I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke, @AAdeleke_01, on his re-election as Governor of Osun State. His victory demonstrates the choice of the people of Osun as expressed at the ballot box.

The governor's win was also acknowledged by opposition figures. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar congratulated Adeleke, viewing the victory as a reflection of the people's choice at the ballot box. He commended the electorate's passion and peaceful participation.

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I commend the people for their passion and peaceful participation. I wish Governor Adeleke continued success as he continues to serve them.

Similarly, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi titled his reaction "Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins." He highlighted the election as proof of citizens' power to choose leaders and praised Adeleke's performance. Obi urged Nigerians to remain engaged in the democratic process, emphasizing that active participation, voting, and ballot protection can drive change.

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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.