The Nigeria Democratic Congress(NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election in Osun State as a strong reminder that citizens remain the ultimate custodians of democratic power.

In a message congratulating Adeleke and the people of Osun, Obi said the election had demonstrated the importance of citizens standing up to defend their votes and democratic choices.

He commended Osun youths for what he described as their courage and peaceful vigilance, saying their conduct showed that an alert electorate could help safeguard democracy.

According to Obi, the significance of the Osun election goes beyond the state, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

He urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the experience by becoming more informed, participating actively in elections and ensuring that their votes are protected from the polling unit through the collation process.

Obi said the citizens who endure hunger, insecurity, deprivation and economic hardship are also the ones with the power to demand change through their votes.

“Every genuine vote must be respected, and every lawful mandate must be protected,” he said.

He also called on political parties and their candidates to place the interests of Nigerians above partisan ambitions, insisting that elections should be peaceful contests centred on ideas, competence, character and service rather than violence.

The NDC presidential candidate said the Osun outcome should strengthen public confidence in democratic participation and encourage Nigerians to take greater responsibility for the future of the country.