NDC hails Adeleke’s victory in Osun, praising voters and INEC while urging the commission to sustain the transparency seen in the 2026 poll
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Monday, August 17, 2026, hailed Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the Osun State governorship election, describing the result as a triumph for democracy and the will of the people.
Also read: Adeleke faces backlash over Tinubu endorsement
The NDC’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the outcome demonstrated that voters could resist what he described as “tyranny”, “civilian dictatorship” and attempts to suppress their democratic choices.
In a statement, Director commended Osun residents for turning out to vote and insisting that their ballots should count.
“The victory of the Accord in the Osun State governorship election is a victory for democracy. It is a triumph of the people’s will over any authoritarian leadership,” Director said.
He also praised Adeleke for remaining in the contest and allowing voters to decide his political future.
“I commend Gov. Adeleke for standing firm to insist that he has the right to contest and be voted for by his people if that is their choice, and indeed, that is actually their choice,” he said.
Adeleke secured a second term in office after defeating the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, in Saturday’s closely watched election.
The result marked a significant political victory for Adeleke, who had faced a strong challenge from the APC and its political structure in the state.
The NDC said the election was particularly important because it showed that citizens could influence electoral outcomes when they were determined to exercise their democratic rights.
Director said the result also reinforced the need to protect the integrity of the ballot and ensure that voters’ choices are respected.
The opposition party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its handling of the election.
However, Director cautioned the commission against treating the Osun poll as an isolated success, particularly with the 2027 general election approaching.
“I hope this is not going to be a flash in the pan on the part of INEC to make us lose our guards and think that come 2027 it will be this transparent,” he said.
The comments come as political parties and major figures increasingly turn their attention towards the 2027 elections, with the Osun result likely to influence wider calculations ahead of the next general election.
For the NDC, Adeleke’s victory represents more than a change in the political balance of Osun.
Also read: Adeleke faces backlash over Tinubu endorsement
The party sees it as a powerful reminder that electoral participation and credible polling can give voters a decisive voice.
