Incumbent, Governor Ademola Adeleke, who contested on the platform of Accord Party, was declared winner of the keenly contested election by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, on Sunday morning.

Reacting to the development, Olatunji said the outcome of the election showed that no amount of influence and intimidation can suppress the will of the people.

He described the outcome of the Osun election is a significant morale booster for the electorate ahead of the general elections.

Olatunji also congratulated Adeleke on his victory, adding that what happened in Osun State is a wake-up call to political office holders that the people posses the constitutional power to determine who governs them through their votes.

“The Osun election is a morale booster for many emerging political leaders and genuine democrats who believe that strong connection with the electorate, fulfilment of electoral promises, empathy, commitment to quality leadership, strategic positioning and credible engagement with the people remain critical to electoral success.

“It is becoming increasingly evident that Nigerian voters are beginning to appreciate the power of their votes and the importance of participating actively in the democratic process.

“The message from Osun is clear: the people have the power, and when they collectively decide, no amount of money, influence or political might can permanently suppress their will,” he said.

He also commended youths in the state for peacefully defending their votes during the election.

“The people of Osun State have spoken with courage and clarity, reaffirming that the power to choose their leaders belongs to the people,” Obi said.

“The lesson from Osun is clear: democracy is strongest when citizens are alert, conscious of their civic responsibility, and determined to ensure that their votes count,” he added.

Obi urged Nigerians to remain active and protect their votes during the 2027 general election.

Nigerians have been sending their congratulatory messages to the governor following his victory in the poll.

Reacting, Melaye, in a post on his X handle on Sunday, said despite having President Bola Tinubu, 33 state governors and the Senate President, the APC still lost.

The former lawmaker insinuated that the ruling party will soon go into extinction, urging the party to rest in peace.

He wrote, “Till we meet again APC. Rest in Peace. 34 Governors, Senate President and Tinubu defeated. Odabo Tinubu… Ancestral State lost.”