The National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, on Monday felicitated Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election during Saturday’s governorship poll in the state.

Aregbesola, who is a former governor of the state, described the election as a moment when citizens exercise their sovereign right to choose who they wish to entrust with the responsibility of governing them.

In a Facebook post sighted by The Guardian, Aregbesola acknowledged that “people of Osun have spoken through the ballot; their decision must be respected. I therefore extend my best wishes to Governor Adeleke as he prepares to commence another term in office.”

“I congratulate A on his re-election as the Governor of Osun following the governorship election held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, “he stated.

While noting that the task before the governor is now greater than the concluded election, Aregbesola averred that “I urge him to see the outcome as a renewed mandate to unite the state, deepen development and govern with fairness, humility and a strong sense of responsibility to every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation.”

Commending the people of Osun for their active participation in the democratic process, Aregbesola is also the immediate past Minister of Interior appealed to all political actors, supporters and citizens to allow the state to move forward in peace and unity.

He, however, appreciated members and supporters of ADC in Osun for standing by the party’s standard bearer, Honourable Najeem Salaam, who polled 17,180 during the election.

“You stood firm, worked tirelessly and remained committed to the ideals that brought us together, even in the face of enormous political pressure and an intensely competitive electoral environment.

“Most importantly, I salute you for standing solidly with our candidate, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam (IWALOYE). Your loyalty to the candidate and the cause was demonstrated not merely in words, but also through months of sacrifice, mobilisation, advocacy and peaceful participation in the democratic process.

“To every ADC member, supporter, volunteer, campaigner, agent and well-wisher who contributed to our campaign, I ask you to hold your heads high. You gave your best for our candidate and for the Osun we believe is possible, ” Aregbesola remarked.