Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election in the Osun State governorship election held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, urging the governor to use the renewed mandate to unite the state and deepen development.
Aregbesola, in a statement issued on Sunday, also commended the people of Osun for what he described as their political sophistication and participation in the democratic process, while calling on political actors and citizens to allow the state to move forward in peace and unity.
He said, “Now that the people of Osun have spoken through the ballot, their decision must be respected. I therefore extend my best wishes to Governor Adeleke as he prepares to commence another term in office.”
According to the former governor, the responsibility before Adeleke was now greater than the contest that had just ended, urging him 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. I urge him to see the outcome as a renewed mandate to unite the state, deepen development and govern with fairness, humility and a strong sense of responsibility to every citizen,” he said.
Aregbesola, who supported the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam, also praised members, supporters, volunteers and campaigners of the party for their steadfastness throughout the election.
He said, “To the men and women of the African Democratic Congress in Osun, I say: thank you. I am particularly proud of your steadfastness, courage and commitment throughout this journey.”
He further commended the ADC members for remaining committed to their candidate despite what he described as enormous political pressure and an intensely competitive electoral environment.
Aregbesola particularly saluted the supporters for standing firmly behind Salaam, noting that their commitment was demonstrated through months of sacrifice, mobilisation, advocacy and peaceful participation in the electoral process.
He also commended Salaam for conducting his campaign with dignity and receiving the outcome of the election with maturity.
“Dr Salaam has conducted himself with dignity throughout this contest. His campaign represented our tradition and conviction that politics should be about ideas, competence, character and service to the people,” Aregbesola said.
The former governor urged ADC members not to allow the outcome of the election to bring an end to their commitment to the development of Osun State, saying political participation should continue beyond electoral contests.
He said democracy is strengthened when political actors have “the courage to compete vigorously, the humility and maturity to accept the people’s decision and the wisdom to continue contributing to society afterwards.”
Aregbesola also urged Governor Adeleke to extend a hand of fellowship to political opponents and make his second term one of greater inclusion, reconciliation and service to all residents of the state.
“I urge Governor Adeleke to extend the hand of fellowship to all political tendencies and to make the next chapter of his administration one of greater inclusion, reconciliation and service to all,” he said.
He called on members of the ADC family to remain united, disciplined and hopeful, stressing that political journeys often extend beyond individual electoral contests.
“The values that brought us together, good governance, accountability, justice, competence and service to the people, remain worthy of our continued commitment,” he added.
Aregbesola concluded by wishing Adeleke wisdom, good health and success in the service of Osun State.
“Once again, I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and wish him wisdom, good health and success in the service of Osun, our dear State,” he said.
