By Kingston Magare 16.8.2026
Ademola Adeleke has danced his way into a second term in office despite the pressure coming from elements supporting his All-Progressives Congress opponent Bola Oyebamiji, threats of violence, intimidation and thuggery.
The Independent National Electoral Commission’s Returning Officer, Prof. Joshua Ogunwole declared Mr. Adeleke winner of the fiercely contested August 15 election and for the people of Osun it is time to move on with their lives and expect more dancing, after the tumultuous election.
Adeleke polled 511, O67 thousand votes to best the APC candidate Mr. Oyebamiji who couldn’t be saved by the so-called federal might, he garnered 444, 815 votes and Nojim Salami of the African Democratic Congress received 17,180 thumb ups out the total 985, 079 ballots casted by voters.
Credits go to the INEC for allowing the votes to count and the security forces for preventing a breakdown of law and order. Nigerians are now wishing that the INEC and the Security forces can do the same fair job in the 2027 general elections.
“To all lovers of democracy, I thank you for supporting our struggle. From home and abroad, the support is overwhelming. My faith in democracy is deepened,” Adeleke said on Sunday.
“Most importantly, I thank the media for standing by me—by us. The constant coverage in support of democracy emboldened us, and we are grateful.”
Meanwhile President Bola Tinubu has called Mr. Adeleke to congratulate him, while ADC and NDC presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi also sent their warm wishes.
“Osun: When the People Stand, Democracy Wins,” Obi wrote on his X social media platform.
“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.”
Atiku said it was clear Mr. Adeleke was the choice of the Osun people.
“I congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke, @AAdeleke_01, on his re-election as Governor of Osun State.
“His victory demonstrates the choice of the people of Osun as expressed at the ballot box. I commend the people for their passion and peaceful participation. I wish Governor Adeleke continued success as he continues to serve them,” Atiku wrote.
