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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory in the Saturday governorship election.
In a personally signed statement issued on Monday, Aregbesola emphasized that the people of Osun have spoken through the ballot, and their decision must be respected.
“The task before the governor is now greater than the contest that has just ended. I urge him to see the outcome as a renewed mandate to unite the state, deepen development, and govern with fairness, humility, and a strong sense of responsibility to every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation.
“I also commend the people of Osun for their active participation in the democratic process and political sophistication. I must appeal to all political actors, supporters, and citizens to allow the state to move forward in peace and unity.”
Aregbesola expressed immense pride in the dedication of members of his party, saying “To the men and women of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun, I say: thank you. I am particularly proud of your steadfastness, courage, and commitment throughout this journey. You stood firm, worked tirelessly, and remained true to the ideals that brought us together, even in the face of enormous political pressure and an intensely competitive electoral environment.
Aregbesola also lauded the party’s standard-bearer for his grace and dignity throughout the campaign, saying “Dr. Salaam has conducted himself with dignity throughout this contest. His campaign represented our tradition and conviction that politics should be about ideas, competence, character, and service to the people. I commend him for the maturity with which he has received the outcome of the election and for putting the peace and unity of Osun above personal ambition.”
Addressing the broader implications of the election, the former minister noted that while the outcome differed from their aspirations, the journey does not end at the polls.
He encouraged ADC members, supporters, volunteers, agents, and well-wishers to hold their heads high, preserve the bonds forged during the campaign, and continue engaging constructively by holding the government accountable while offering responsible alternatives.
Aregbesola called on Governor Adeleke to foster a spirit of broad-based cooperation, saying “I urge Governor Adeleke to extend the hand of fellowship to all political tendencies and to make the next chapter of his administration one of greater inclusion, reconciliation, and service to all.
“To the ADC family, let us remain united, disciplined, and hopeful. Political journeys are often longer than individual electoral contests. The values that brought us together—good governance, accountability, justice, competence, and service to the people—remain worthy of our continued commitment.”
