Ademola Adeleke Clinches Victory in Osun Governorship Race, Unseating Incumbent Governor Oyetola

In a remarkable electoral turnaround that has reshaped Osun State’s political landscape, Senator Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emerged victorious in the highly anticipated 2022 governorship election, defeating the incumbent Governor Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The election, which was held on Saturday, July 16, 2022, was keenly contested and widely watched across Nigeria due to the high stakes and the fierce rivalry between the two leading parties. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared the results in the early hours of Sunday, July 17, confirming Adeleke’s triumph with a wide margin.

INEC’s Declaration and Voter Turnout

According to INEC’s final tally, Senator Adeleke polled a total of 403,371 votes, significantly outpacing Governor Oyetola, who garnered 375,027 votes. The margin of over 28,000 votes reflected a strong desire for change among Osun’s electorate.

The voter turnout was also notable, signaling a renewed public interest in governance and leadership at the state level. The peaceful conduct of the election drew praise from several local and international observers, who lauded the relative calm and transparency compared to past contests.

Adeleke’s Second Attempt Ends in Victory

This win marked Senator Adeleke’s second bid for the governorship seat. In 2018, he narrowly lost to Oyetola in a controversial election rerun that drew nationwide criticism and was eventually upheld by the Supreme Court in Oyetola’s favor.

However, four years later, Adeleke returned with renewed vigor, refined strategy, and a more coordinated campaign that focused heavily on economic revitalization, youth empowerment, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners. His populist messaging and grassroots mobilization resonated strongly across the 30 local government areas of Osun State, helping to galvanize support from both urban and rural communities.

Public Celebration and Party Reaction

Jubilant scenes erupted in major towns across Osun State, including Ede (Adeleke’s hometown), Osogbo, and Ile-Ife, as supporters of the PDP celebrated the outcome. Chants, music, and processions filled the streets as residents expressed joy over what they described as the return of people-focused governance.

The PDP leadership welcomed the result as a clear indication of the public’s dissatisfaction with the APC-led administration. In a statement, the PDP said Adeleke’s victory reflected the collective will of Osun people to embrace progress, accountability, and transparency in government.

APC’s Response and Call for Reflection

While the APC expressed disappointment at the loss, party leaders, including Governor Oyetola, called for calm among supporters and promised to review the electoral outcome. Some APC stakeholders attributed the defeat to internal divisions and growing public frustration over economic hardships and salary arrears affecting state workers and retirees.

Oyetola, in a post-election statement, urged citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding, emphasizing that the democratic process must be respected.

National Implications Ahead of 2023 Elections

Adeleke’s victory sent ripples across the national political arena, signaling potential challenges for the APC ahead of the 2023 general elections. Analysts believe the Osun outcome could foreshadow growing momentum for the PDP in southwestern Nigeria—a region traditionally seen as a stronghold for the ruling APC.

The Osun governorship race was also viewed as a critical test of Nigeria’s electoral reforms, particularly the recently passed Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill. The successful use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) during the polls was widely praised for improving voter authentication and reducing the likelihood of manipulation.

Adeleke’s Agenda and Next Steps

In his acceptance speech, Senator Adeleke expressed gratitude to the people of Osun for entrusting him with leadership. He dedicated his victory to the memory of his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, the first executive governor of Osun State.

He promised to run an inclusive administration focused on job creation, education reform, improved health care, and transparent fiscal management. Adeleke also called on residents, including his political opponents, to join hands in rebuilding Osun State.

“My mission is to restore the dignity of our people and reposition our state on the path of sustainable development,” Adeleke stated. “Together, we will create a government that truly serves the people.”

Conclusion

Senator Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the 2022 Osun governorship election stands as a testament to the power of persistence, grassroots mobilization, and the evolving dynamics of Nigerian democracy. As the state prepares for a new administration, all eyes will be on Adeleke’s leadership style and his ability to meet the expectations of an electorate eager for tangible change.