President Bola Tinubu has personally congratulated Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election victory, describing the outcome as proof that democracy is thriving under his administration. The president placed a direct call to Adeleke following the August 16, 2026 governorship election result, according to a State House press statement released by Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
In the statement, Tinubu said, "I called Governor Ademola Adeleke earlier today to congratulate him on his election victory in Osun State. His victory once again confirmed the confidence the people of Osun State have in him." The president's message went beyond congratulations, as he outlined expectations for Adeleke's second term in office.
President's Charge to Adeleke
Tinubu urged the re-elected governor to prioritise unity and work towards the economic and social development of the state, regardless of how residents voted during the election. "Now that he has won, Governor Adeleke must unite the people of Osun State and rally them for growth, stability, and social and economic progress, regardless of the political choices they made at the election," the president added.
The president also acknowledged the other candidates who contested the election, commending their courage and noting that their participation contributed to a richer democratic process. He described the result as a clear reflection of the will of Osun voters.
Praise for INEC and Security Agencies
Tinubu singled out the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies deployed for the poll, commending both for what he called a peaceful and transparent conduct of the exercise that produced a definitive winner. This praise comes amid the backdrop of a highly contested election that saw 14 candidates on the ballot.
Earlier reports indicated that the election, held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, was one of the most watched political contests in Osun State in years. The field featured 14 candidates, with three prominent contenders: incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Najeem Salam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Impact of the Election Outcome
The president's call and statement underscore the federal government's recognition of the election's significance. By urging unity and development, Tinubu has set a tone for post-election collaboration in Osun State, which could influence governance and political dynamics in the region.
As Adeleke begins his second term, the expectations from the presidency and the people of Osun State are clear: focus on uniting the state and driving social and economic progress. The peaceful conduct praised by Tinubu may also serve as a benchmark for future elections in Nigeria.
