The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and ex-National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Lai Olurode, on Wednesday, congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his victory at the Supreme Court which affirmed his election.
A congratulatory statement signed by Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, then urged Adeleke to develop a robust partnership with the Federal government in the interest of the Osun people.
The royal father also advised Adeleke to be magnanimous in victory and lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion.
The statement read in parts, “The House of Oduduwa is thrilled to extend her heartfelt congratulations to you on your remarkable and well-deserved victory as declared by the esteemed Supreme Court of Nigeria. This momentous ruling is a triumph for democracy and the will of the Good People Of The State Of Osun.
“The people of the state have placed their trust in you, and we have no doubt that you will work tirelessly to fulfil the aspirations and dreams of citizenry. Your passion for public service, your vision for progress, and your unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people will undoubtedly guide you in the path ahead.
“Now that you have been finally affirmed as our Governor, you are urged to develop a robust partnership with the Federal government in the interest of our people. We have full confidence that you will be magnanimous in victory and also, lead with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Your tenure is an opportunity to bring about positive change, uplift communities, and foster an environment of inclusivity, progress, and development.”
Similarly, ex-INEC national commissioner, Olurode, in his congratulatory message to Adeleke, noted that the governor had passed through difficult electoral and legal hurdles and advised him to quickly settle down to commence serious work of responding to the cries of the people in terms of infrastructural deficit.
In considering people for appointments, he also advised Adeleke to be all-inclusive and avoid winner takes all approach that may create instability.
Olurode equally commended the former governor, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, for being a gentleman who never sought violence in his pursuit of electoral justice.