Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has congratulated his Osun State counterpart, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his victory in the just-concluded governorship election in the state.
Governor Otti, in a congratulatory message issued on Sunday, also commended the people of Osun State for the peaceful and successful conduct of the election.
The governor said the orderly manner in which voters came out to exercise their franchise, as well as the peaceful conduct of the election before, during and after the exercise, demonstrated the maturity of Nigeria’s democracy.
“The orderly manner in which Osun people came out to exercise their franchise, and the peaceful conduct before, during and after the election, in spite of some observed irregularities, is a testament to the maturity of our democracy and the commitment of citizens to peaceful coexistence”.
He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what he described as its professionalism, and also applauding security agencies and other stakeholders for their contributions towards ensuring a safe, credible and transparent electoral process.
Governor Otti said the successful conduct of the election would further strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria and reinforce the right of citizens to determine who leads them.
“I commend the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for its professionalism, the security agencies for ensuring a safe environment, and all stakeholders who worked to make the process credible and transparent.
“This successful exercise further strengthens democratic governance in our country and reinforces the voice of the people in choosing their leaders”, the Governor said.
He urged Governor Adeleke to use his second term to deepen people-centred governance and improve the welfare of residents across Osun State.
The Abia governor further emphasised the historical and familial ties between the two states, describing Governor Adeleke as an “Abia grandson” and assuring him and the people of Osun of his administration’s solidarity.
“As you start your second tenure in office, I encourage you, to remain focused on delivering people-centered governance that improves the lives of Osun people, expands opportunities, and sustains peace and development across the State.
“As an Abia grandson, we stand with you and your state in the shared vision of building stronger institutions and delivering the dividends of democracy to our people”, Governor Otti said.
He prayed for divine wisdom, good health and strength for Governor Adeleke as he begins his second tenure, urging him to continue serving the people of Osun State with distinction.
