The Young Progressives Party (YPP), on Sunday, hailed Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his victory in the recently concluded governorship election.

The party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and the people of Osun State for their roles in ensuring that the democratic mandate was protected.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Egbeola Wale Martins, described the outcome as a clear demonstration of the will of the people.

The YPP said the election reaffirmed that candidates with the requisite social capital, grassroots support and acceptance could win elections on any political platform.

Martins said: “The outcome of the election is a clear demonstration of the will of the people and a reaffirmation that any candidate with the requisite social capital, grassroots support and acceptance can win an election under any political platform.

“The voice of the Osun people was loud, clear and unmistakable despite the intimidation, tension and challenges that characterised the electoral process. The people have spoken through their ballots, and their mandate must be respected.

“We particularly commend the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, for demonstrating courage, professionalism and institutional independence by refusing to succumb to pressure and allowing the will of the people of Osun State to prevail.

“At a time when public confidence in democratic institutions is critical, his commitment to the integrity of the electoral process deserves recognition.”

The party urged Adeleke to regard his second term not merely as a political victory but as a solemn responsibility and an opportunity to intensify the delivery of good, qualitative and inclusive governance to the people of Osun State.

He noted that the second mandate came against the painful backdrop of lives lost during pre-election violence, stressing that the sacrifices must not be in vain.

He added, “The Governor must therefore use the opportunity provided by this second chance to accelerate development, improve infrastructure, strengthen education and healthcare, create economic opportunities for the youth, and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every part of Osun State.

“We also want to commend the security agencies for their professionalism and role in maintaining peace during and after the election. Their efforts contributed significantly to preventing further escalation of tensions and ensuring that citizens could exercise their democratic rights.

“Above all, we salute the people of Osun State for their resilience, determination and steadfastness in protecting their mandate. Their courage is a powerful reminder that democracy ultimately belongs to the people and that the ballot remains the strongest instrument through which citizens can determine who governs them.”

The party called on all political actors and stakeholders to accept the outcome of the election in the spirit of democratic maturity and work together for the peace, stability and development of Osun State.