Otti hails Osun poll, charges Adeleke to consolidate democratic gains

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State on his election for a second term in office, describing the poll as a testament to democratic maturity.

The Returning Officer for the Osun governorship election, Joshua Ogunwole, who announced the results at the INEC Collation Centre in Osogbo early Sunday, said Mr Adeleke of the Accord Party secured 511,067 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, who polled 444,815 votes.

Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress came a distant third with 17,180 votes.

Mr Otti, in a congratulatory message issued on Sunday and made available to reporters in Umuahia, also commended the Osun people for the peaceful conduct of the governorship election.

He said the orderly manner in which voters exercised their franchise, despite some observed irregularities, demonstrated their commitment to democracy and peaceful coexistence.

“The peaceful conduct before, during and after the election, in spite of some observed irregularities, is a testament to the maturity of our democracy and the commitment of citizens to peaceful coexistence,” Mr Otti said.

The governor also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its professionalism and security agencies for creating a safe environment for the election.

He acknowledged the contributions of other stakeholders toward ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process.

According to him, the successful exercise further strengthens democratic governance and reinforces the people’s voice in choosing their leaders.

Mr Otti urged Mr Adeleke to remain focused on delivering people-centred governance as he begins his second tenure.

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“As you start your second tenure in office, I encourage you to remain focused on delivering people-centred governance that improves the lives of Osun people, expand opportunities, and sustains peace and development across the State,” he said.

Mr Otti expressed solidarity with Mr Adeleke and the Osun people, stressing that Abia shared their vision of strengthening institutions and delivering the dividends of democracy.

“As an Abia grandson, we stand with you and your state in the shared vision of building stronger institutions and delivering the dividends of democracy to our people,” Mr Otti said.

He prayed God to grant Governor Adeleke wisdom, good health and strength to continue serving Osun and its people with distinction.

(NAN)