Former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, urging him to use his renewed mandate to promote unity, development and inclusive governance across the state.
Aregbesola, in a statement posted on X following the August 15 governorship election, said the outcome represented the decision of the people and should be respected.
“I congratulate Senator Ademola Adeleke on his re-election as the Governor of Osun following the governorship election held on Saturday, August 15, 2026,” he said.
“Now that the people of Osun have spoken through the ballot, their decision must be respected.”
Aregbesola, who was also involved in the election as a leading figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said Adeleke’s responsibilities were now greater than those associated with the campaign.
He urged the governor to regard the election outcome as a fresh mandate to unite Osun and govern fairly, regardless of political affiliation.
“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,” he said.
The former governor also commended Osun voters for their participation and described them as politically sophisticated.
He reserved special praise for members of the ADC, thanking them for remaining committed to the party’s candidate, Najeem Salaam, despite what he described as intense political pressure.
“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,” Aregbesola said.
He also praised Salaam for the manner in which he conducted his campaign and received the election outcome, saying the candidate placed the interest of the state above personal ambition.
Aregbesola said the party’s loss at the polls should not end its commitment to Osun, urging members and supporters to remain united and continue to hold government accountable while offering constructive alternatives.
“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.
He further called on Adeleke to extend “the hand of fellowship” to political groups across the state and make his next term one of reconciliation and broader inclusion.
To ADC members, Aregbesola said the values that brought them together, including good governance, accountability, justice, competence and service, remained worth pursuing beyond the election.
“Political journeys are often longer than individual electoral contests,” he said.
Aregbesola concluded by wishing Adeleke “wisdom, good health and success” in his service to Osun, adding: “Power is responsibility.”
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