Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election.

Adeleke was declared the winner of Saturday’s governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Sunday after polling 511,067 votes across the state.

The State Returning Officer, Prof Joshua Ogunwole, declared Adeleke of the Accord Party winner at about 7:24am on Sunday.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Sunday, Obi said the election demonstrated that the people had the power to choose their leaders.

He said, “I warmly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and the good people of Osun State on this important democratic victory.

“They – Osun people – have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people.”

Obi, who commended Osun youths for what he described as peacefully defending their democratic mandate, said the outcome offered lessons ahead of the 2027 general election.

He said, “The lesson from Osun is clear: democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibility, and determined to ensure that their votes count.

“Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected.”

The former Anambra State governor urged Nigerians to participate actively in the 2027 elections and protect their votes.

He also called on political actors to prioritise the interests of the people and embrace peace and the rule of law.

“Elections should never be battles of violence, but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service,” he said.

Obi added, “May the Osun experience strengthen our confidence in the democratic process and inspire Nigerians everywhere to remain vigilant and committed to building a just, secure, prosperous, and truly people-centred nation.”

Saraki, in a separate statement on his X handle, described Adeleke’s re-election as a vote of confidence in his administration.

He said, “I congratulate my dear brother and friend, Governor Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election as Governor of Osun State.

“The people of Osun have spoken, and they have spoken clearly. They have had four years to judge the record of his stewardship, to weigh the promises against the performance, and they have asked him to continue.”

Saraki also commended Osun residents for voting and remaining vigilant in defence of their votes.

He said, “At a time when there are legitimate concerns about the strength and credibility of our democratic institutions, every election in which the will of the people is freely expressed, faithfully counted and ultimately respected is an important victory for our democracy.”

The former Senate President urged Adeleke to use his second term to consolidate his administration’s achievements and justify the renewed mandate.

“I wish him well, and I trust that he will use the next four years to deepen the work already begun, justify the confidence of the people of Osun, and leave behind a stronger and more prosperous state,” Saraki said.

Adeleke defeated his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, who polled 444,815 votes and won 11 of the state’s 30 local government areas. The ADC candidate, Najeem Salaam, came third with 17,180 votes.