By Dennis Okechukwu
National Democratic Congress presidential candidate in the 2027
general elections, Mr. Peter Obi has congratulated Oasun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election, describing the outcome of the governorship election as a victory for democracy and the people.
Obi, in a statement titled “Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins,” commended the people of Osun State for what he described as their courage and clarity in reaffirming their right to choose their leaders.
He said Adeleke’s commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and achievements in office had earned him the renewed confidence of the electorate.
“I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory,” Obi said.
He particularly praised the youths of Osun State for peacefully defending what he described as their democratic mandate, saying their vigilance demonstrated the power of citizens to protect their votes.
“I particularly commend the courageous youths of Osun who rose to the occasion and peacefully defended their democratic mandate,” he said.
According to Obi, the outcome of the election underscores the importance of citizens remaining vigilant and conscious of their civic responsibilities.
“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.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Obi urged Nigerians to remain informed, participate actively in the electoral process and protect their votes.
He argued that Nigerians experiencing hunger, insecurity, deprivation and economic hardship also possess the power to influence the direction of the country through 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,” he said.
The former presidential candidate also called on political actors to put the interests of Nigerians above partisan considerations and embrace peace, unity and the rule of law.
He stressed that elections should not be treated as battles of violence, but as contests based on ideas, competence, character and service.
Obi expressed hope that the Osun experience would strengthen Nigerians’ confidence in the democratic process and encourage citizens across the country to remain committed to building a just, secure, prosperous and people-centred nation.