Osun election: ADC’s Najeem Salaam congratulates Adeleke, urges respect for people’s mandate

Dr Najeem Salaam, the candidate from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State's recent governorship election, has extended his congratulations to Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election. In a message directed personally to Adeleke, Salaam emphasized that the decision of the voters must be respected by all involved in politics.

He reminded everyone that democratic elections are about allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders, and once that choice is made, the contestants and their supporters should accept it and strive to maintain peace and uphold democratic values.

Salaam pointed out that despite the variety of choices, contestation, and differing views in any democratic process, the most important aspect is that the people are granted the opportunity to decide. He noted that the election showcased the inevitable nature of winners and losers in such contests, affirming that the people had indeed exercised their right to choose, and this decision deserves respect and support.

Salaam reminded everyone that politics should not be a do-or-die affair, and that political differences should never lead to threats to the state's peace, unity, or brotherhood.

The ADC candidate encouraged Governor Adeleke to utilize his renewed mandate to evaluate areas where his administration could improve upon its achievements and build on them. Salaam advised him to consolidate the existing gains while addressing the shortcomings, stressing that effective governance requires continuous assessment and adjustment.

"Your Excellency, as you commence another term in office, I urge you to use this mandate as an opportunity to reflect on the areas where your administration may have fallen short, improve upon them and consolidate on the gains already recorded. Governance is a continuous process, and every administration has areas that require reflection, correction, and improvement," he advised.

Salaam also urged Governor Adeleke to administer the state without discrimination, regardless of political affiliation or previous differences. He emphasized that Osun belongs to all its citizens, and their collective responsibility is to build a state where every individual can live with dignity, security, and hope for a better future. The ADC candidate's congratulatory message arrived after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Adeleke the winner of the August 15 governorship election.