…Says President’s phone, ‘manifestation of democratic maturity’

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has lauded President Bola Tinubu over what it described as a display of rare statesmanship following his decision to personally congratulate the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election victory before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally declared the results.

The group, which harped on the president’s gesture, noted that it came despite the candidate of his own political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), being defeated in the gubernatorial contest.

The statement, which was signed by the National Organising Secretary of the group, Abagun Kole Omololu, urged Adeleke to receive the renewed confidence of the people with humility and an abiding sense of responsibility.

Afenifere described the move as a demonstration that partisan competition should never eclipse the national interest.

The foremost Yoruba group stressed that the election had reaffirmed the cardinal principle that sovereignty resides with the people.

The group insisted that the verdict of the electorate must be respected without equivocation and the mandate regarded as sacrosanct.

With Afenifere positioning the Osun election as a model of democratic maturity worthy of emulation across the federation, it stated that at a time when electoral contests can degenerate into rancour and recrimination, the President’s action constitutes a refreshing manifestation of democratic maturity.

It added that the gesture demonstrated that partisan competition should never eclipse the national interest and that the President, irrespective of political allegiance, must remain a father to all Nigerians.

“The mandate is not a political trophy but a solemn covenant with the entire people of Osun State. He must therefore govern with fairness, inclusiveness and fidelity to the public good, transcending partisan considerations in the larger interest of the State.”

Afenifere regarded the president’s action as a salutary example for political leaders across the country, emphasising that electoral contests should end with the graceful acceptance of the people’s verdict rather than descend into vendetta, recrimination or institutional hostility.

“Political fortunes are transient; democratic institutions and national cohesion must endure,” the group stated.

The organisation extended its congratulations to the people of Osun State for their steadfast commitment to democracy and the peaceful exercise of their franchise, while also wishing Adeleke wisdom, courage and sagacity as he continues to discharge the weighty responsibility entrusted to him by the people.

The Osun State governorship election, which was conducted over the weekend, saw Adeleke of the Accord Party securing a decisive victory over his closest rival, Oyebamiji of the APC, in a contest that was described as peaceful despite pockets of irregularities in some local council areas.