President Bola Tinubu has advised Osun State Governor,Ademola Adeleke, to approach his victory in the recent governorship election with humility and a strong commitment to unity rather than treating his political opponents as defeated enemies.
Tinubu gave the advice when Adeleke paid a visit to him at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, following his victory at the polls.
The President congratulated the governor on securing another mandate from the people of Osun State, but stressed that winning an election should not be interpreted as conquering other contestants. According to him, elections are a fundamental part of democracy, and every candidate who participates in a credible process deserves respect regardless of the outcome.
He therefore appealed to Adeleke to avoid actions or statements that could portray his opponents as targets of political retaliation. Tinubu encouraged the governor to use his renewed mandate as an opportunity to promote reconciliation and bring people across political divides together.
The President noted that democracy should be celebrated when citizens are given the opportunity to freely express their choice at the ballot box. He argued that those who believe in democratic principles should be willing to accept electoral outcomes, whether they emerge victorious or are defeated.
Tinubu also urged Adeleke to ensure that no individual who participated in the election becomes a victim because of political differences. He said the governor should look beyond the immediate political contest and consider the long-term interests of Osun State and future generations.
According to the President, the governor’s responsibility after securing victory is to govern for everyone, including those who did not vote for him. He maintained that Adeleke’s administration should focus on building bridges, strengthening relationships and creating an atmosphere where citizens can work together despite their political affiliations.
Tinubu further reminded Adeleke that political success should not be attributed solely to personal ability or strategy. He said leaders ultimately depend on the support and confidence of the people, adding that divine providence also plays a role in determining who occupies positions of authority.
Using his own political journey as an example, the President said his emergence as Nigeria’s leader was not simply the result of individual brilliance but also the product of public support and circumstances that allowed him to attain the presidency.
He similarly told Adeleke that his victory should be viewed as an opportunity entrusted to him by both God and the electorate. The governor, he said, should therefore demonstrate gratitude through his actions and ensure that his leadership benefits the wider population.
Tinubu’s remarks came as a call for restraint, inclusiveness and responsible leadership following the conclusion of the Osun governorship election. He urged Adeleke to transform his electoral victory into an opportunity for reconciliation and development rather than allowing political differences to deepen divisions within the state.
The President ultimately encouraged the governor to govern with maturity, remembering that elections are temporary contests while the responsibility to serve the people continues beyond the campaign period.
