#OsunDecides2026: Tinubu congratulated Adeleke before INEC declared Osun result — Campaign spokesperson

President Bola Tinubu extended congratulations to Governor Ademola Adeleke for his victory in the Osun governorship election prior to the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) official declaration. Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, commended the President for his commitment to a free and fair electoral process in the state.

Olajengbesi highlighted Tinubu's directive to security agencies to remain professional and neutral during the poll, describing it as essential for protecting voters and ensuring the election's credibility. The campaign council had previously petitioned the British High Commission and the Inspector-General of Police regarding security concerns, advocating for a credible election.

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We are also appreciative of Mr President because, at the commencement of this election, Mr President announced to the world and informed the Independent National Electoral Commission that the poll should be credible, and we agree that the election was credible, free and fair.

The election campaign was tense, with the ruling Accord Party and the APC trading accusations of political violence and misconduct. Governor Adeleke had appealed to Tinubu for intervention concerning alleged killings and political repression in Osun State. The APC, however, refuted these claims, accusing Adeleke of attempting to shift blame to the President for his political challenges.

Despite the preceding tensions and accusations, Olajengbesi expressed strong appreciation for the President's role. "We are also appreciative of Mr President because, at the commencement of this election, Mr President announced to the world and informed the Independent National Electoral Commission that the poll should be credible, and we agree that the election was credible, free and fair," he stated. He added that Tinubu called Adeleke to congratulate him even before the results were announced, underscoring his belief that politics should not be a "do-or-die affair."

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Even before the election results were announced, Mr President called Governor Adeleke and congratulated him. Politics should not be a do-or-die affair, and that is what Governor Adeleke stands for.