Otti hails Osun poll, charges Adeleke to consolidate democratic gains
Otti hails Osun poll, charges Adeleke to consolidate democratic gains
Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has congratulated Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun on his victory 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 Governor Adeleke polled 511,067 votes to emerge as the winner of the keenly contested exercise.
Oyebamiji of the APC came second with a total vote count of 444,815 while Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was a distant third with 17,180 votes.
Otti, in a congratulatory message issued on Sunday, and made available to newsmen in Umuahia, also commended the people of Osun for the peaceful conduct of the governorship election.
He said that 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,” 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.
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According to him, the successful exercise further strengthens democratic governance and reinforces the voice of the people in choosing their leaders.
Otti urged Adeleke to remain focused on delivering people-centred governance as he begins his second tenure.
“As you start your second tenure in office, I encourage you to remain focused on delivering people-centered governance that improves the lives of Osun people, expand opportunities, and sustains peace and development across the State,” he said.
Otti expressed solidarity with Adeleke and the people of Osun, 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,” Otti said.
Otti prayed God to grant Adeleke wisdom, good health and strength to continue serving Osun and its people with distinction.
