Governor Reflects on Election as 'Toughest Test'
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has described the recent governorship election as the toughest test of the state's identity since its creation 35 years ago. In a statewide broadcast marking the anniversary, Adeleke praised residents for their conduct during the poll, saying the outcome demonstrated their commitment to democracy. He called them people of valour and integrity.
"Nationally, my people have emerged as a shining light for democratic practice," the governor said, according to Daily Post Nigeria.
Adeleke said residents turned out in large numbers to exercise their voting rights despite what he described as a "reign of terror." He said voters rejected violence and embraced the ballot, adding that some residents defended their votes despite risking their lives.
"As true sons and daughters of the Source, you not only voted but you defended your votes even at personal risk to your lives," Adeleke said.
The governor acknowledged the losses and injuries recorded during the election period, expressing sympathy to families who lost loved ones. "I recognise the pains and sacrifices of our people in the last few months. The sacrifices of those killed or injured will not go in vain," he said.
Adeleke, who said residents had demonstrated their belief in democracy and the rule of law, pledged to heal wounds, unite the people and uphold equity and fairness during the remainder of his administration.
Commission of Inquiry and Compensation Fund
Adeleke announced plans to establish a Commission of Inquiry into election violence, which he said would receive memoranda from victims and affected residents. He also disclosed the creation of an election victim compensation fund, headed by Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly Adewale Egbedun, to cushion the effects of the violence.
The governor pledged to build on his administration's programmes in infrastructure, the digital economy, sports, agriculture, education and healthcare, with continued attention to youths, women and students. He urged residents to remain law-abiding and avoid reprisal attacks, saying the government would strengthen its five-point agenda while focusing on wealth creation, poverty reduction, rural development, industrialisation and ease of doing business.
APC Candidate Concedes and Calls for Protection
Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, has congratulated Governor Adeleke on his re-election for a second term. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday after addressing APC leaders and members in Osogbo, Oyebamiji said he accepted the outcome of the election and congratulated Adeleke, who emerged victorious.
"In the spirit of democracy and as we commemorate the 35th anniversary of the creation of our dear Osun State, I congratulate His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, on his victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission," he said while addressing party members in Osogbo, as reported by Premium Times.
Oyebamiji condemned reported post-election killings, harassment and intimidation of party members and called on Adeleke to use his constitutional powers to protect lives and property across the state. He also alleged that some small and medium-sized businesses had been attacked due to their owners' perceived political affiliations or non-allegiance to the Accord Party.
"The senseless killings, harassment and intimidation of members and other residents must stop," he said, urging the governor to ensure the safety of citizens and their businesses.
Oyebamiji said the party must close ranks and begin mobilisation for President Bola Tinubu's re-election and other party candidates.
Election Results and Context
According to Premium Times, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke, the Accord Party candidate, winner of the 15 August governorship election, defeating Oyebamiji of the APC. Adeleke was presented a certificate of return on 19 August in Osogbo by INEC National Commissioner representing the South-west, Kunle Ajayi. Adeleke won with 511,067 votes against Oyebamiji's 444,815 votes.
Premium Times reported that no fewer than 73 election-related violent incidents occurred ahead of the election, leading to 29 deaths, with Osogbo as the worst-hit area. Post-election clashes killed at least two more people, according to the same report. Oyebamiji's concession came about two weeks after Adeleke was announced the winner.