By Emmanuel Oloniruha

 

The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has congratulated Gov Ademola Adeleke of Osun, on his re-election for another term in office.

 

NNRM National Chairman, Dr Chinedu Obi, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, described Adeleke’s victory as a significant affirmation of confidence which the people of Osun State have reposed in his leadership.

 

He said that the NRM considered the outcome of the election not merely as a political victory, but as a reward for good governance, reward for responsiveness, people-oriented service delivery

 

Obi also described the victory as a demonstrated belief in the capacity of the people to determine who governs them.

“The result is also a powerful testimony to the enduring principle that, in a democracy, the people are sovereign and their will must ultimately prevail.

 

“The electorate of State have exercised their constitutional right to choose their leader, despite all odds,” he said.

 

Obi said that the NRM commended the people of Osun for their civic courage and commitment to democratic participation.

 

“Their decision reinforces the fundamental democratic proposition that political power derives from the consent of the governed and that the ballot remains the most legitimate instrument for determining political leadership,” he said.

 

Obi added that the NRM equally believed that the outcome of the Osun election offered an important lesson for Nigeria’s democratic development.

 

“The credibility, capacity, competence, suitability and acceptability of a candidate are ultimately more decisive than the political platform on which the candidate contests an election.

 

“A political party provides the vehicle, but it is the candidate’s record, character, competence, connection with the people and ability to inspire confidence that can determine electoral success in a genuinely competitive and credible election,” he said.

 

Obi called on Adeleke to regard his re-election not simply as a celebration of political victory, but as a renewed mandate and a solemn covenant with the people of Osun.

 

He advised the governor to repay the confidence placed in him by the electorate with even greater commitment to people-centred governance, quality infrastructure, and employment creation.

 

He also tasked the governor on improved education and healthcare, economic empowerment, security, social protection, transparency, accountability and equitable development across all parts of the State.

 

 

 

 

“The NRM particularly urges the governor to broaden the circle of beneficiaries of government and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the ordinary citizens, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and vulnerable communities.

 

“The people have spoken. The next chapter must therefore be about delivering even more for the people who have spoken,” he said.

 

Obi also called on Adeleke as he commences his second term to rise above partisan considerations and govern for all Osun people, including those who voted for him and against him.

 

“The true measure of democratic victory is not merely winning an election, but using the mandate secured at the ballot box to build a more prosperous, peaceful, inclusive and united society,” he added.

 

Obi called on all political actors to respect the expressed will of the Osun electorate and to continue to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions through peaceful engagement, tolerance, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

 

While congratulating Adeleke on his re-election, Obi wished him wisdom, courage and a renewed sense of responsibility as he leads Osun through the next phase of its development.

 

“The people have spoken. Democracy has prevailed. The mandate must now be translated into greater service, greater development and greater prosperity for the people of Osun,” he said.