Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has spoken for the first time after securing re-election, revealing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally called to congratulate him following the outcome of the governorship election.
Adeleke also extended an invitation to his defeated challenger, Senator Fatai Oyebamiji, urging him to set aside political differences and acknowledge the result.
‘This Is a Victory for the People’
Speaking to journalists after the results were declared, Adeleke attributed his victory to the people of Osun State, saying the result reflected their appreciation of his administration’s performance during his first term.
He highlighted his government’s focus on infrastructure, education and agriculture.
“It is a victory for democracy in Nigeria. A victory for the people of Osun State who have stood by me and said, ‘Imole, you have done a lot for us.’”
According to the governor, the election was therefore not simply a personal victory but a demonstration of the people’s choice.
Adeleke Reveals Tinubu’s Phone Call
Adeleke disclosed that President Tinubu personally contacted him after the election to congratulate him.
The governor thanked the President for what he described as his role in ensuring that the democratic process continued.
“Mr President has called me and congratulated me. Thank you, Mr President, for making sure democracy lives on because we fought for it, Mr President.”
The disclosure comes after a closely watched election that attracted significant attention from political parties and national political figures.
Governor Calls on Oyebamiji to Congratulate Him
Adeleke also reached out to his main challenger, calling on Oyebamiji to put the contest behind him.
The governor described the election as a situation with “no victor, no vanquished” and said he expected his opponent to contact him.
“I want them to come over, and I am expecting Oyebamiji, even as a civil person, to call me and congratulate me.”
The appeal signals Adeleke’s desire to move beyond the intense campaign and focus on governance.
Adeleke Sets Out His Second-Term Vision
With another four years ahead, Adeleke said his administration would focus on transforming Osun’s economy.
His stated ambition is to move the state away from its heavy dependence on civil service employment and toward industrialisation.
“My vision is to make sure Osun State moves from a civil servant state to an industrial state, and to ensure that development cuts across Osun State.”
The governor did not indicate that he had any doubts about his chances during the election.
Asked whether he ever feared losing, Adeleke responded:
“No, no, no. I have a God who never fails. He never fails forever.”
A Second Term Begins
Adeleke began his post-election remarks by giving credit to God for the outcome and presenting the victory as a triumph for democracy rather than merely a personal achievement.
With the election behind him, the focus now shifts from campaigning to whether his administration can deliver on its second-term promise of industrialisation, broader development and improved public services across Osun State…..see more