Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the Osun State governorship election, has yet to publicly congratulate Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election.
This comes despite calls from President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, several APC governors, and other prominent party leaders, all of whom have congratulated Adeleke on his victory.
On Monday, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also encouraged Oyebamiji to acknowledge Adeleke’s win in Saturday’s poll. However, in a statement released on Tuesday, Oyebamiji chose instead to thank APC loyalists and supporters for their steadfastness and urged security agencies to address reported attacks on party members and supporters.
In his statement from Osogbo, Oyebamiji expressed concern about a growing trend of hostility and violence directed at APC members and supporters. He commended party members for their commitment, sacrifice, and tireless efforts during the election, saying, “Your unwavering support for my candidacy and the prosperity agenda we presented is something I will always cherish.”
Oyebamiji acknowledged the electoral umpire’s declaration and expressed respect for the party’s ongoing review of the election’s outcome. He also conveyed deep appreciation to everyone who believed in and supported his vision, including volunteers, party leaders, and voters who placed their trust in him.
He urged his supporters to remain calm and peaceful in the post-election period, emphasizing that the causes he championed are still alive. “I encourage everyone to continue adding value and to keep working for the APC and the development of Osun State,” Oyebamiji added.
Highlighting concerns over post-election violence, he called on the state government and security agencies to intervene, noting that attacks against APC members have intensified in the past 24 hours.
According to the State Returning Officer of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joshua Ogunwole, Governor Ademola Adeleke was declared the winner of the governorship election on Sunday, securing 511,067 votes to Oyebamiji’s 444,815.
