Osun 2026 Election: Peter Obi Congratulates Adeleke, Commends Citizens For Defending Their Votes

Presidential candidate of Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in the 2026 Osun State governorship election, while also commending the people of the state for what he described as a courageous defence of their democratic mandate.

Obi, in a statement on his X handle on Sunday, said the people of Osun “spoke with courage and clarity,” reaffirming that the power to choose leaders belongs to the electorate.

“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory. They – Osun people – have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people,” he said.

He praised Governor Adeleke for earning the renewed confidence of the electorate through his performance in office.

“Through his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements in office, Governor @AAdeleke_01 has earned their renewed confidence and been entrusted once again with their mandate,” Obi stated.

The former Anambra State governor particularly commended young people in Osun State for their role in protecting the electoral process.

“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate. Their vigilance and determination demonstrate that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness,” he said.

Obi said the Osun election had reinforced the importance of civic responsibility and voter vigilance in strengthening democracy.

“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. Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected,” he said.

He also used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to remain engaged ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging active participation in the democratic process.

“This is also a clarion call as we approach 2027. Nigerians must remain informed, participate actively, vote, and protect their votes. The Nigerian people are the ones experiencing hunger, deprivation, insecurity, and hardship; therefore, they are also the ones with the power, through their votes, to bring about the change that will end these conditions,” Obi said.

He urged political actors to prioritise national interest over partisan considerations and ensure peaceful conduct during elections.

“I urge all political actors to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations and to embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law. Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service,” he added.

Obi added that the Osun experience should strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process and inspire citizens to remain vigilant.

“May the Osun experience strengthen our confidence in the democratic process and inspire Nigerians everywhere to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO,” he said.