Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke and voters in Osun State on the successful conduct of the state’s governorship election, which resulted in Adeleke’s re-election.

Atiku, in a press statement issued by his media office, said the outcome of the election reflected the democratic wishes of the people of Osun State.

He particularly expressed satisfaction with the manner in which voters in the state came out in large numbers and resisted all anti-democratic machinations aimed at undermining the electoral process.

“The outcome of last Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Osun State is an expression of the wishes of the people, which has earned Governor Adeleke his re-election.

“The lesson from the election is that the voters in Osun State have set a good example of how we must come out in large numbers in the general elections next year.

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“Another important lesson from the Osun election is that it is a clear manifestation of how the collective resolve of the electorate to stand firm to protect their ballot is the best antidote to rigging, vote buying and other electoral malpractice and irregularities,” Atiku said.

He further said that, despite the alleged orchestrated plot to intimidate voters through the heavy presence of armed personnel, the outcome of the election showed how unpopular the All Progressives Congress (APC) had become because of the failed policies of the Tinubu-led APC administration.

“Nigerians have roundly rejected the APC. The election in Osun State is just a telling indication that the APC will be defeated in the general election in January 2027. Indeed, it is a forerunner of the 2027 General Elections.

“I specifically thank Governor Adeleke for mobilising the people of Osun State to stand firm in the face of state-sponsored intimidation and for leading the country into the path of the total defeat of the APC,” Atiku added.

The former Vice President urged Governor Adeleke to begin his new mandate with a renewed resolve to effect more positive changes and bring about improved economic and social prosperity for the people of Osun State.

According to Atiku, “While we congratulate Governor Adeleke for his victory at the polls, I wish to urge him to continue with the process of good governance that has earned him the affection of the people and to make Osun State a shining success that the country will be proud of. One good term is indeed deserving of another.”