Oriontimes Political Desk| August 18, 2026
OSOGBO, OSUN STATE — Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, while commending the people of Osun State for what he described as their political sophistication and participation in the democratic process.
Aregbesola, in a statement following the governorship election held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, said the outcome represented the sovereign choice of the people and should therefore be respected by all political actors.
He wished Adeleke well as he prepares to begin another term, urging the governor to regard his re-election as a renewed mandate to unite the state, deepen development and govern with fairness, humility and a strong sense of responsibility to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
“The task before the governor is now greater than the contest that has just ended,” Aregbesola said, urging Adeleke to make his next administration one defined by inclusion, reconciliation and service to the entire state.
The former governor also commended Osun voters for their participation in the electoral process, describing the electorate as politically sophisticated.
He called on political parties, supporters and citizens across the state to allow Osun to move forward in peace and unity after the election.
Aregbesola Salutes ADC Members
Aregbesola reserved special commendation for members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), praising their steadfastness, courage and commitment throughout the election campaign.
He said ADC members remained committed to the ideals that brought them together despite what he described as enormous political pressure and an intensely competitive electoral environment.
In particular, he praised the party's supporters for standing firmly behind its governorship candidate, Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam, popularly known as Iwaloye.
According to him, the loyalty of ADC members was demonstrated through months of sacrifice, mobilisation, advocacy and peaceful participation in the democratic process.
Aregbesola also commended Salaam for the dignity with which he conducted his campaign and his maturity in responding to the outcome of the election.
He said the ADC candidate's campaign reflected the belief that politics should be centred on ideas, competence, character and service to the people.
“Dr. Salaam has conducted himself with dignity throughout this contest,” Aregbesola said, adding that he deserved commendation for placing the peace and unity of Osun above personal ambition.
‘Political Journey Must Continue Beyond Election’
Reflecting on the election, Aregbesola said an electoral defeat should not mark the end of political engagement or commitment to the development of the state.
He maintained that democracy becomes stronger when political actors have the courage to compete vigorously, the humility to accept the people's decision and the wisdom to continue contributing to society after an election.
He urged ADC members, supporters, volunteers, campaigners, agents and well-wishers who participated in the campaign to remain proud of their efforts.
“You gave your best for our candidate and for the Osun we believe is possible,” he said.
Aregbesola further encouraged members of the ADC family to preserve the relationships and bonds established during the campaign, while continuing to engage constructively, speak for the people, hold government accountable and offer responsible alternatives where necessary.
Call for Inclusive Governance
The former governor also appealed to Adeleke to extend the hand of fellowship to political tendencies across the state.
He urged the governor to make his second term a period of greater inclusion, reconciliation and service to all residents of Osun.
To the ADC family, Aregbesola called for unity, discipline and hope, stressing that political journeys are often longer than individual electoral contests.
He reaffirmed the continued relevance of the principles that brought the ADC supporters together, including good governance, accountability, justice, competence and service to the people.
Aregbesola concluded by congratulating Governor Adeleke once again and wishing him wisdom, good health and success in the service of Osun State.
“Power is responsibility.”
— Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
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