By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the winner of the Osun State governorship election.

In a statement on Sunday, the National Chairman of the party, Engr. Yabagi Yusuf Sani, described the outcome as a significant development in the state’s democratic journey.

The party also described the fourth-place finish of its governorship candidate, Adeagbo O. Yemisi, as evidence of its growing grassroots influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The ADP commended the people of Osun State for their peaceful participation in the electoral process, stressing that the verdict of the electorate must be respected.

It, however, urged any candidate or political party with legitimate grievances over the election to seek redress through constitutionally recognised and legally established channels.

Beyond Adeleke’s victory, the ADP said the election had delivered an important political signal for the party, particularly through the performance of its governorship candidate.

The party described Adeagbo’s performance as impressive, saying her campaign demonstrated that Nigerian women possessed the capacity, political strength and public appeal to compete successfully for elective offices.

According to the ADP, its fourth-place position was significant, having been achieved against political parties with substantially greater financial resources and established political structures.

It said the result validated its “silent but effective campaign strategy” and pointed to what it described as increasing acceptance of its message of responsible and people-centred governance.

The party said the outcome represented more than a numerical position on the election table, describing it as evidence that its political structures were beginning to take root at the grassroots and that its campaign for a credible alternative to the established political order was gaining traction.

The ADP particularly praised Adeagbo for running a courageous, resilient and disciplined issue-based campaign, saying her performance had brought honour to the party and strengthened the case for greater participation by women in Nigerian politics.

The party also appreciated the Osun State leadership, campaign organisation, members, polling agents, volunteers and supporters who contributed to the campaign.

It specifically thanked voters across the state who cast their ballots for its candidate, describing their support as a demonstration of growing confidence in the party.

Looking ahead to 2027, the ADP said it would study the lessons from the election, strengthen its organisational structures and consolidate the gains recorded in Osun State.

It said the exercise would form part of its broader preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the Osun result serving as both a benchmark and a springboard for further expansion.

“Our performance in Osun should therefore not be viewed merely in terms of our position on the result table,” the party said, describing the outcome as evidence of “a political movement steadily gaining ground” and highlighting the possibilities ahead for the ADP.