Najeem Salaam, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the Osun State governorship election, has publicly thanked his supporters, party members, and the people of Osun for their participation in the electoral process. In a statement addressed to the ADC family, Salaam said the campaign was built on a shared belief in the progress and future of Osun State rather than a pursuit of political power alone.
Campaign Driven by Belief in Osun's Future
"Against all odds, we walked, we talked and we stood together. We did so not merely for political power, but because we genuinely believe in the development, progress and future of Osun State," Salaam wrote. The candidate's message came after the election, which saw Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declared winner, according to earlier reports.
Salaam directed a portion of his message to ordinary residents of Osun who came out to vote, saying their democratic choices deserve full respect. "To the good people of Osun State, I deeply appreciate you for coming out to exercise your democratic right. I thank you for listening to our message, engaging with us and giving us the opportunity to present our vision for a better Osun. Your voices and choices must always be respected, because democracy ultimately belongs to the people," he said.
Aregbesola's Role in the ADC Campaign
Salaam also singled out former governor Rauf Aregbesola, who backed the ADC's campaign, describing him as "a great political strategist, mobiliser and courageous leader" whose wisdom and experience strengthened the party's effort in the state. Aregbesola, who governed Osun State from 2010 to 2018 before serving as Nigeria's Interior Minister, aligned with the ADC ahead of the election. Salaam said his involvement served as a reminder that politics can be "about ideas, service and the people."
The candidate closed his statement by expressing gratitude to every ADC volunteer, supporter, and party faithful who remained committed throughout the campaign period. He emphasised that the campaign was not merely about winning an election but about laying a foundation for sustainable development in Osun.
APC Candidate Raises Alarm Over Post-Election Violence
In a related development, Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the Osun election, raised an alarm over what he described as a growing wave of violence targeting his party members and supporters in the days following the poll. In a statement addressed to APC members, leaders, and supporters across the state, Oyebamiji said that attacks which began before the election had intensified significantly within the 24 hours after results were declared.
The APC candidate's concerns highlight the tense atmosphere that has followed the election, even as Salaam's ADC has taken a conciliatory tone. The ADC candidate's message of gratitude and respect for the democratic process stands in contrast to the allegations of violence, underscoring the divergent experiences of political actors in the aftermath of the Osun 2026 election.
