President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated winner of the Osun State governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke defeated the candidate of Buhari’s All Progressives Congress (APC) and incumbent governor Adegboyega Oyetola.
Buhari, on Sunday, took to his verified Facebook wall to congratulate the winner and commend the successful conduct of the governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Buhari said that is what democracy is all about, and assured Nigerians that he would leave behind a legacy of credible elections.
On his part, the National Chairman of PDP, Dr Iyorcha Ayu, also congratulated Senator Adeleke on his victory, saying the people of Osun State have spoken loud and clear.
Ayu, in a statement, on Sunday in Abuja, said the victory was attained in spite of numerous attempts by the State Government to frustrate the party.
“We had to use the party’s state secretariat. As it were, we couldn’t have access to the stadium, but we had access to the people’s hearts, loyalty and votes.
“The convincing win of 403, 371 against Oyetola’s 375, 027 is ample proof of that.
“Today is, therefore, not just a day of double restoration – it’s a day of redemption too. It restores PDP to power and redeems the Osun people.
“I congratulate the two-time winner, the tenacious Adeleke. I congratulate the good people and residents of Osun. I hail every party stakeholder who stood with us in action, prayers and hope,” he said.
Ayu continued: “You have kept faith with the PDP. You refused to be intimidated. You refused to be bought over with foodstuff and 30 silver coins. You said no to thuggery and vote-fraud. You have done well.”
He described the Osun State election as a referendum and a proof that Nigerians want the PDP back.
“Indeed, PDP is coming,” he said.
He lauded the INEC as well as security agencies for maintaining neutrality and ensuring that the votes counted.
“The task before us now is to transit from opposition to governance. This, we shall do.
“With Osun done, next is villa!
“We call on all PDP members and all Nigerians to join the moving PDP train. Don’t be left behind. Our next destination is Aso villa.
“With PDP,” Nigeria shall rise again. Indeed, she is already rising. Osun people have spoken. The rest of Nigeria shall speak with a resounding voice on February 25, 2023,” he said.
Ayu also lauded the PDP National Campaign Council for the Osun State governorship election, headed by Governor Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State, for a superlative performance.
He also thanked the party’s Vice Presidential candidate Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State for his tireless efforts.
“The PDP is proud of all of you.
“You have helped to return PDP to power after 12 years. You have returned hope to Osun,” he said.