Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in the August 15, 2026 governorship election, urging him to use the renewed mandate to unite the state and deepen development.
Aregbesola, in a statement, said the people of Osun had spoken through the ballot and that their decision must be respected.
He urged Adeleke to see the election outcome as a fresh responsibility to govern with fairness, humility and a strong sense of responsibility to all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.
“The task before the governor is now greater than the contest that has just ended,” Aregbesola said.
He also commended the people of Osun for their participation in the democratic process and described them as politically sophisticated, while appealing to political actors, supporters and citizens to allow the state to move forward in peace and unity.
Aregbesola, who also praised members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state, said he was particularly proud of their steadfastness, courage and commitment throughout the election.
He commended the ADC members for standing firmly behind the party’s governorship candidate, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam, popularly known as Iwaloye, saying their loyalty was demonstrated through months of sacrifice, mobilisation, advocacy and peaceful participation.
According to him, Salaam conducted himself with dignity throughout the campaign and represented the belief that politics should be centred on ideas, competence, character and service.
Aregbesola also praised Salaam for the maturity with which he accepted the election outcome, noting that the candidate placed the peace and unity of Osun above personal ambition.
“Democracy is strengthened when political actors demonstrate the courage to compete vigorously, the humility and maturity to accept the people’s decision and the wisdom to continue contributing to society afterwards,” he said.
He urged ADC members, supporters, volunteers, campaigners, agents and well-wishers to remain proud of their contributions to the campaign and preserve the relationships forged during the electoral process.
The former governor also called on the ADC family to remain united, disciplined and hopeful, stressing that political journeys often extend beyond individual electoral contests.
He urged the party to continue engaging constructively, speaking for the people, holding government accountable and offering responsible alternatives where necessary.
Aregbesola further appealed to Adeleke to extend a hand of fellowship to all political tendencies and make the next phase of his administration one of greater inclusion, reconciliation and service to all.
He wished the governor wisdom, good health and success in the service of Osun State.
“Power is responsibility,” Aregbesola said.
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