By Benson Daniel
Osun State Governor and candidate of the Accord Party, Ademola Adeleke, has described his victory in the 2026 governorship election as a triumph for democracy and the people of the state.
Adeleke spoke shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission declared him the winner of Saturday’s election, saying the result reflected the will of Osun voters and their confidence in his administration.
The governor expressed appreciation to God and residents of the state for supporting his re-election bid, stressing that the mandate belonged to the people rather than to him personally.
He said the outcome demonstrated that voters had recognised the achievements of his administration, particularly in infrastructure, education and agriculture.
Adeleke also called on his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, to accept the result and congratulate him.
“This is no victory, no vanquish. I want them to come over. I’m expecting Oyebamiji to call me and congratulate me,” Adeleke said after his declaration.
The governor said the election had provided an opportunity for Osun residents to freely express their choice through the ballot box, describing their decision as a reaffirmation of democratic values.
He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for allowing the democratic process to take place, saying the President had called to congratulate him following the election outcome.
According to the final results announced by INEC, Adeleke polled 511,067 votes to defeat Oyebamiji, who secured 444,815 votes. The result gave the Accord Party candidate a margin of 66,252 votes and secured him a second term in office.
The election marked a significant political development in Osun State, as Adeleke contested under the Accord Party after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party.
The governor’s victory is also expected to shape political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly as political parties assess the outcome and its implications across the South-West.
Speaking on his plans for the new term, Adeleke indicated that his administration would continue its development agenda, with industrialisation expected to receive greater attention as he seeks to transform Osun’s economy and create more opportunities for residents.
The governor has also pointed to infrastructure, education and agriculture as areas where his administration intends to consolidate its achievements.
Adeleke urged residents to remain united following the election, stressing that the contest was over and that governance should now take precedence over political differences.
He said the mandate would be used to further advance development across the state and improve the lives of its citizens.
The victory has since triggered celebrations among supporters in Osogbo and other parts of the state, while political figures from across the country have continued to congratulate the governor on his re-election.
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