Enugu: The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, describing this historic victory as a significant democratic achievement for Nigeria. Obi, in a statement titled: ‘Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins’, emphasized that the people of Osun had ‘spoken with courage and exceptional clarity’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the victory reaffirmed that the power to choose leaders belongs to the people. Obi added, “The victory is a demonstration of the power of the people” all across Nigeria. He highlighted that Adeleke’s renewed mandate reflected his commitment to the people, compassion for their needs, and the strength of his work and achievements during his tenure.
The NDC presidential candidate specifically commended the youths of Osun for their courageous and peaceful defense of their democratic mandate during the contested weekend governorship polls. He noted that their vigilance and determination demonstrated that when citizens stand firmly to protect their votes, the forces of good can overcome the forces of darkness in any election.
Obi emphasized that the lesson from Osun was that democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibilities, and determined to ensure their votes count. He stressed that every genuine vote must be respected and every lawful mandate protected to ensure that the will of the people is never undermined by any anti-democratic force.
Looking forward to the 2027 General Elections, Obi called on Nigerians to remain informed, participate actively, vote, and protect their votes across every polling unit nationwide. He stated that Nigerians, facing hunger, deprivation, insecurity, and hardship, possess the power through their votes to bring about the change needed to address these challenges.
Obi urged political actors to place the interests of the people above partisan considerations and embrace peace, unity, and the rule of law across the Nigerian democratic political landscape. Elections, he said, should not be battles of violence but contests of ideas, competence, character, and service to the people yearning for functional and progressive good governance.
He expressed hope that the Osun experience would strengthen Nigerians’ confidence in the democratic process and inspire citizens to remain vigilant and committed to building a truly prosperous, people-centred nation.