The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his victory in the August 15, 2026 governorship election, describing the re-election as a fresh mandate and an opportunity to deepen development across the state.
The Ooni also called on the governor, political leaders and citizens to move beyond the divisions of the election and focus on building a more peaceful, united and prosperous Osun State.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, the Ooni, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), said the conclusion of the electoral process should usher in a new chapter of reconciliation, inclusive governance and purposeful leadership.
He said while elections were naturally marked by competition and differing political interests, the outcome should now encourage all stakeholders to put political differences aside and prioritise the collective interests of the people.
“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 said.
The monarch commended the people of Osun State for participating in the electoral process and urged political actors, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to embrace peace following the election.
He specifically appealed to Governor Adeleke to extend an olive branch to those who contested against him and work towards healing any divisions that may have emerged during the electioneering period.
According to the Ooni, the governor’s second term should be driven by governance beyond partisan interests, with greater emphasis on consolidating existing achievements and implementing policies and projects capable of delivering lasting benefits to the people.
He identified youth empowerment, employment creation, education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, tourism and the creative economy as key areas requiring sustained attention if Osun is to achieve meaningful and sustainable development.
The Ooni also commended the state government for its ongoing infrastructural interventions, particularly the recently completed Lagere Flyover in Ile-Ife and the road dualisation project linking Mayfair to Enuwa.
He urged the administration to sustain the momentum and ensure that development initiatives extend to more communities across the state.
“Osun is richly endowed with human and cultural resources. Our state must now move from political competition to economic competition, from electioneering to development, and from division to collaboration,” the Ooni said.
He added that the state must create an environment where young people can access opportunities, businesses can thrive, and its rich cultural heritage can serve as a catalyst for tourism, investment and economic growth.
The Ooni further called for stronger collaboration between the Osun State Government and the traditional institution, stressing that traditional rulers remain important partners in maintaining peace, mobilising communities and promoting grassroots development.
He assured the governor of the continued support of the traditional institution for initiatives focused on peacebuilding, cultural preservation, youth development, tourism and economic growth across the state.
The Ooni also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, election officials, observers, the media and other stakeholders for their contributions to the conduct and conclusion of the election.
He urged Governor Adeleke to view his re-election as a call to greater service and make his second term a legacy-building period capable of leaving a lasting impact on present and future generations.
The monarch prayed for wisdom, strength and divine guidance for the governor as he prepares to continue his service to the people of Osun State.
“May this renewed mandate bring greater peace, prosperity and development to Osun State. May your second term unite the people, strengthen our institutions and open new opportunities for our youths and communities.
“Once again, I congratulate His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke. The election is behind us; the future of Osun is before us. Let us all unite and build it together,” Ooni Ogunwusi stated.