United Kingdom Highlights Electoral Concerns in Osun Poll While Congratulating Adeleke
The United Kingdom government has extended its congratulations to Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election victory in the August 15 governorship poll. However, the British High Commission in Nigeria also raised serious concerns regarding several issues that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. These concerns included allegations of vote-buying, voter interference, accessibility challenges for persons with disabilities and the elderly, as well as overcrowding at polling units due to the limited and slow deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
In a statement released on August 16, 2026, the British High Commission commended the people of Osun State for their peaceful and active participation in the election. The commission emphasized the importance of learning from the observed shortcomings ahead of the 2027 general election. Prior to the poll, the commission had engaged with a range of stakeholders and deployed its own team of accredited observers across the state to monitor the process.
Based on the observations of its team and findings from credible independent observer organizations with broader deployments, the British High Commission acknowledged several encouraging aspects of the electoral process. These included the timely opening of polling units in many locations, the commitment of security personnel in maintaining order, and the effective implementation of electoral procedures by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The commission particularly commended the resilience and participation of voters throughout the election.
Also Read : APC Rejects Adeleke as Osun Governor Over Vote Discrepancies
However, the generally peaceful conduct of the election did not overshadow concerns over practices that could undermine electoral credibility. The British High Commission noted reports of isolated incidents that generated tension before and during the election, as well as the persistent challenge of voter interference, including vote-buying across party lines. Additionally, the commission raised concerns over the accessibility of the electoral process for persons with disabilities and elderly voters. Another critical issue highlighted was the overcrowding at some polling locations, which the commission attributed partly to the speed and limited availability of the BVAS for voter accreditation.
The British High Commission urged relevant Nigerian institutions to review the identified challenges and draw lessons from the election to improve future polls. It specifically referenced recommendations from credible civil society election-monitoring organizations, including the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, as potentially useful in strengthening public confidence, transparency, and accountability.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, the British High Commission cautioned that some of the advantages observed during an off-cycle governorship election—such as the ability to deploy additional personnel and resources—could be more difficult to replicate during nationwide elections. The commission urged stakeholders to use the Osun experience to identify areas requiring improvement before the next general election. It emphasized that lessons from the election should contribute to stronger electoral integrity, inclusiveness, and credibility.
The British High Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with Nigeria’s electoral institutions, civil society organizations, and other partners to support peaceful, transparent, inclusive, and credible elections. Strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, the commission stated, remains central to its engagement with the country.
Obasanjo, Ooni, and Political Leaders Praise Adeleke’s Re-election and Urge Unity
Former President Obasanjo Celebrates Adeleke with a Surprise Visit
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo paid an unscheduled visit to the re-elected Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, at his country home in Ede on the evening of August 17, 2026, to celebrate his victory. Obasanjo was accompanied by Otunba Fasawe and was received by Adeleke with his signature dance and a song of praise for the successful outcome of the election.
The former president prayed for the governor’s continued success and urged him to remain steadfast in delivering good governance and the dividends of democracy to the people of Osun State. “Continue to deliver good governance. Continue to meet the needs of your people,” Obasanjo charged the governor. Adeleke, visibly surprised by the ex-president’s visit, expressed his gratitude to God and the people of Osun State. He pledged to continue serving as a loyal servant of the state’s residents.
Adeleke told Obasanjo, “Baba, I thank you for this surprise visit. I promise never to disappoint God, Osun people and all lovers of democracy, who made our victory possible.”
The Deputy Governor of Osun State, Kola Adewusi, accompanied the governor to receive Obasanjo at his residence.
Ooni of Ife Calls for Unity and Reconciliation in Osun State
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory in the August 15 governorship election. In a statement issued by Senior Media Officer Sodiq Lawal on behalf of Director of Media and Public Affairs Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni described the election outcome as a fresh mandate and an opportunity to advance the development of the state. He emphasized that the conclusion of the election should mark the beginning of a new chapter of unity in Osun State.
The Ooni stated, “While elections are naturally characterised by competition and divergent political interests, the conclusion of the electoral process requires all stakeholders to put political differences aside and unite in the collective interest of the people.”
He further noted, “Your victory comes with a renewed responsibility to serve the entire people of Osun State, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnic background, religious belief or geographical location. The election is over, but the work of building a stronger, more prosperous and peaceful Osun has only just begun.”
The Ooni commended the people of Osun State for exercising their civic responsibility and urged all political actors, candidates, supporters, and other stakeholders to embrace peace. He particularly called on Adeleke to extend an olive branch to all political opponents and work toward healing any divisions that may have emerged during the electioneering period.
Bauchi Governor Commends Tinubu’s Democratic Leadership
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, praised President Bola Tinubu for allowing the people of Osun State to determine the outcome of the governorship election through their votes. Speaking to journalists at his Yelwan Duguri polling unit shortly after casting his ballot in the state’s local council election, Mohammed stressed that the era of election results manipulation was over. He asserted that every serious politician must work to earn their electoral victory.
Mohammed stated, “You cannot sit at home and assume that the federal government will give you the advantage to win an election. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is demonstrating that he is a democrat. You have seen what happened in Osun State, where the people voted and their votes counted. People should, therefore, understand that nobody is coming to install them. This is not a monarchy; this is democratic governance.”
Ogun State Governor Highlights Osun Poll as a Democratic Strength
Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his victory in the August 15 governorship election. Abiodun described Adeleke’s re-election as a reflection of the choice of the people of Osun State, stating that the outcome demonstrated the strength and resilience of Nigeria’s democracy.
The Ogun State governor commended the people of Osun State for their peaceful conduct before, during, and after the election. He urged all stakeholders to prioritize the peace, unity, and development of the state above partisan interests. Abiodun also commended President Bola Tinubu for demonstrating his commitment to democratic values by ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates in the election.
According to Abiodun, “The president’s commitment to democratic values and the independence of the electoral process has further strengthened confidence in Nigeria’s democracy and demonstrated that the ballot remains the most important instrument for determining the choice of the people.”
Abiodun congratulated all candidates who participated in the election for contributing to the democratic process and urged them and their supporters to accept the outcome in the spirit of sportsmanship. He wished Adeleke a successful second term and expressed confidence that the governor would work with all stakeholders to advance the development and prosperity of Osun State.
The Ogun State governor reaffirmed his commitment to promoting democratic values, good governance, peaceful coexistence, and regional cooperation in the overall interest of the people of southern Nigeria.
Senate Leader Urges Acceptance of Election Outcome
Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele called on all contestants in the Osun State governorship election to accept and respect the decision of the majority. Bamidele urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the election, Bola Oyebamiji, to congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election and offer policy ideas to improve governance in the state.
Bamidele stated, “Now that the people of Osun State have spoken, all contestants must accept and respect the decision of the majority.”
He emphasized that the electorate remained “the true and ultimate arbiter of every democracy.”
Bamidele, who is also Chairman of the National Assembly’s South-west Caucus, said the outcome of the election provided important lessons for the APC ahead of the 2027 general election. He stressed the need to strengthen the party’s campaign strategy and deepen engagement with voters across the region.
In a statement, Bamidele said the election demonstrated the supremacy of the electorate in a democracy, emphasizing that all contestants should accept the decision of the people and work together for the development of Osun State. He noted that the outcome imposed a greater responsibility on Adeleke to reunite the people of Osun State across political divides and pursue an inclusive administration.
Bamidele stated, “For me, the APC did not lose the election given the background that Governor Adeleke was coming from as a member of the APC before he defected to the Peoples Democratic Party. Governor Adeleke’s re-election, therefore, is not just the victory for Accord, but also for us in the APC.”
Accord Party Hails Adeleke’s Victory as a Sign of Hope for Nigeria
National Chairman of Accord, Chief Maxwell Mgbudem, said the party’s victory in the Osun State governorship election signaled hope for a brighter future for Nigerians who deserved the dividends of democracy. Speaking at a press conference in Osogbo, Mgbudem stated, “The victory of the Accord and its candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke, in the 15th August 2026 governorship election is a powerful testament of the people’s resolve to freely and peacefully choose their governor and protect their votes in spite of all odds.”
Mgbudem highlighted that the electioneering period was marked by unusual harassment, intimidation, destruction of property, arrests, detention, killings, and the use of federal institutions such as the police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to subdue and suppress the party, the government, and peace-loving people of Osun State. He recalled that anti-democratic forces had crippled local governments in the state by withholding federal allocations despite a court order mandating their release for effective service delivery.
The Accord chairman stated that the objective was to destabilize the government of Adeleke and render Osun State ungovernable to justify a declaration of a state of emergency. He noted, “The people of Osun State who know the antecedents of their oppressors stood firmly with their amiable governor. They trooped out to all Accord’s campaigns across the state, volunteering to reach out to fellow residents anywhere they are found in the spirit of political participation.”
Mgbudem emphasized the achievements of Governor Adeleke and the transformative impact of his leadership. He stated, “The people identified with him and Accord in pursuit of a better, greater, brighter and prosperous Osun State.”
Mgbudem demanded the immediate release of all Accord leaders, candidates, members, and supporters arrested and detained in Abuja, Nasarawa, and Osun states in flagrant violation of their fundamental rights as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). He stated, “It is in the interest of justice and equity to release them immediately. The election is over, there is no need for their detention. The Inspector-General of Police is urged to act accordingly.”
Former Osun Governor Aregbesola Urges Adeleke to Govern with Fairness
Former Governor of Osun State and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election. Aregbesola urged Adeleke to use his renewed mandate to unite the state and govern with fairness.
In a congratulatory statement issued on August 17, 2026, Aregbesola commended the people of Osun for their political sophistication and participation in the election. He called on political actors, supporters, and residents to allow the state to move forward in peace and unity. Aregbesola urged Adeleke to extend the hand of fellowship to political tendencies across the state.
The ADC national secretary also praised members and supporters of the party for their steadfastness and commitment to the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam, throughout the election campaign. Aregbesola noted that Salaam conducted himself with dignity and maturity, particularly in his response to the election outcome.
Aregbesola stated, “I congratulate Senator Ademola Adeleke on his re-election as the governor of Osun following the governorship election held on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Now that the people of Osun have spoken through the ballot, their decision must be respected. I therefore extend my best wishes to Governor Adeleke as he prepares to commence another term in office.”
He added, “I am particularly proud of your steadfastness, courage and commitment throughout this journey. You stood firm, worked tirelessly and remained committed to the ideals that brought us together, even in the face of enormous political pressure and an intensely competitive electoral environment.”
Regarding the ADC governorship candidate, Aregbesola stated, “Dr. Salaam has conducted himself with dignity throughout this contest. His campaign represented our tradition and conviction that politics should be about ideas, competence, character and service to the people. Let us, therefore, preserve the friendships, relationships and bonds forged during this journey. Let us continue to engage constructively, speak for the people, and hold government accountable while offering responsible alternatives wherever necessary.”
ADC Candidate Salaam Advocates Unity for State Development
The governorship candidate of the ADC in Osun State, Hon. Najeem Salaam, appealed to all stakeholders to transcend party affiliations and unite for the collective development of the state. In a congratulatory message personally signed, Salaam emphasized that the choice of the electorate must always prevail in any democratic society.
He stated, “At the end of the day, the choice of the people must prevail. In any democratic process, there will always be choices, contestation, and differing views, but what matters most is that the people are given the opportunity to decide. Today, they have exercised that right, and their decision deserves our respect and support.”
Elder Statesman Olabode George Affirms the Power of the People
Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, described the outcome of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State as an affirmation of the power of the people. George stated that the poll illustrated the importance of allowing the will of the people to prevail in a democracy.
While congratulating Adeleke on his victory, George said the peaceful conduct and outcome of the election should serve as an important example as Nigeria looked ahead to the 2027 general election. According to the elder statesman, the right of Nigerians to freely choose their leaders must remain at the heart of the country’s democratic process, while political actors and institutions must continue to demonstrate restraint, fairness, and respect for the wishes of the electorate.
George expressed satisfaction that the Osun election was concluded peacefully and without a crisis over the results. He stated, “Many people have forgotten that the Wild, Wild West of the First Republic actually started from the Osun Division of the defunct Western Region — Osogbo, Ikire, Ede, Ila-Orangun, Ode-Omu, Ile-Ife, Gbongan, Iwo, Ejigbo and others. That is the real West.”
He added, “I, therefore, want to commend the people of Osun for demonstrating that the ultimate civil, political and democratic authority belongs to the people and is exercised through the ballot. In exercising political power, those entrusted with public office must always remember that their mandate comes from the people. An incumbent may have the advantages of office, but ultimately it is the electorate that determines whether that mandate should be renewed.”
George further noted, “If you work in the interest of the people, they have the opportunity to reward you with their votes. Where they believe otherwise, they are equally entitled to make a different choice. That is the beauty of democracy. Governor Adeleke worked, and the people have expressed their judgment through the ballot. Today, we can see that there is peace across the state because the electoral process has been allowed to run its course.”
He concluded, “My appeal to President Bola Tinubu, as we look towards 2027, is to continue to uphold the democratic principle that every qualified Nigerian who wishes to contest should be allowed to do so in accordance with the law. Nigerians, through their votes, should be allowed to decide who they want to lead them.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Urges Tinubu to Strengthen 2027 Strategy Beyond APC Governors
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide urged President Bola Tinubu to draw critical lessons from the outcome of the Osun State election and strengthen his 2027 re-election strategy around measurable achievements, credible performers, and leaders with proven records of service. In a statement by Deputy President General Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze Ndigbo cautioned Tinubu not to depend exclusively on the political assurances of the APC governors’ forum, as the Nigerian electorate were becoming increasingly conscious and demanding accountability, visible development, and leadership that directly improved the lives of citizens.
Isiguzoro stated that the Osun election outcome served as a significant warning signal to all political actors, including the ruling APC, that electoral victory in 2027 would depend largely on achievements that citizens could see, feel, and appreciate.
The statement emphasized, “The outcome of the Osun election has demonstrated that the electorate are no longer swayed by mere political rhetoric or promises alone. They demand tangible results and visible improvements in their daily lives. This is a lesson that must be heeded by all political actors as we approach the 2027 general election.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo further called on President Tinubu to prioritize inclusivity and national cohesion in his governance approach, ensuring that the voices of all Nigerians, including marginalized groups, are heard and represented in the decision-making process.
Additional Reactions: Political Leaders and Stakeholders Reflect on Osun Poll
Several other political leaders and stakeholders across Nigeria also weighed in on the significance of the Osun State governorship election and its implications for the country’s democratic future. Among them were Senator Mohammed, Governor Abiodun, Senator Bamidele, Chief Maxwell Mgbudem, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Hon. Najeem Salaam, Chief Olabode George, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Their statements collectively underscored the importance of the election as a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience and a precursor to the 2027 general election.
Senator Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s leadership had set a precedent by allowing the people of Osun State to determine the outcome of the election through their votes. He emphasized that the era of election manipulation was over and that political success would henceforth depend on the ability of candidates to earn the trust and support of the electorate. His remarks were made during a press interaction at his Yelwan Duguri polling unit in Bauchi State, where he also cast his ballot in the state’s local council election.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, in his capacity as Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, described Adeleke’s re-election as a reflection of the democratic will of the people of Osun State. He praised the peaceful conduct of the election and commended President Tinubu for ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates. Abiodun’s statement highlighted the importance of democratic values, good governance, and regional cooperation in advancing the interests of the people of southern Nigeria.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, as Senate Leader and Chairman of the National Assembly’s South-west Caucus, called on all political contestants to accept the election outcome and work together for the development of Osun State. He noted that the election had provided valuable lessons for the APC, particularly in strengthening its campaign strategies and deepening voter engagement ahead of the 2027 general election. Bamidele also emphasized the need for Governor Adeleke to foster unity and inclusivity in his administration.
Chief Maxwell Mgbudem, National Chairman of the Accord Party, hailed Adeleke’s victory as a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Osun State. He condemned the alleged attempts by anti-democratic forces to destabilize the state and render it ungovernable, citing the withholding of federal allocations to local governments despite a court order. Mgbudem demanded the immediate release of all Accord members and supporters detained in various states, emphasizing that their continued detention was a violation of their fundamental rights.
Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Governor of Osun State and National Secretary of the ADC, congratulated Adeleke on his re-election and urged him to govern with fairness and inclusivity. Aregbesola praised the political sophistication of the people of Osun State and called on all stakeholders to prioritize peace and unity in the state’s development. He also commended Dr. Najeem Salaam, the ADC governorship candidate, for conducting himself with dignity throughout the election campaign.
Hon. Najeem Salaam, the ADC governorship candidate, appealed to all stakeholders to transcend party affiliations and unite for the collective development of Osun State. He emphasized that the choice of the electorate must prevail in any democratic society and called for respect for the election outcome. Salaam’s message underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in advancing the state’s development.
Chief Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, described the Osun election as an affirmation of the power of the people. He commended the peaceful conduct of the election and the resilience of the electorate. George also urged President Tinubu to uphold democratic principles and ensure that every qualified Nigerian has the opportunity to contest elections in accordance with the law. His remarks highlighted the importance of democratic values and the need for political actors to respect the will of the electorate.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a statement by Deputy President General Okechukwu Isiguzoro, urged President Tinubu to strengthen his 2027 re-election strategy by focusing on measurable achievements and credible leadership. The organization cautioned Tinubu against relying solely on the political assurances of the APC governors’ forum, emphasizing that the electorate were increasingly demanding accountability and visible development. Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s statement served as a reminder of the evolving expectations of Nigerian voters and the need for political leaders to deliver tangible results.