President Bola Tinubu has urged Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to embrace unity after his victory in the recent governorship election, warning against treating political opponents as enemies.
Speaking during a meeting with Adeleke at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu stressed that winning an election should not be regarded as conquering opponents.
“You did not conquer anyone. You won an election,” the President said.
Tinubu said the people of Osun State had made their choice through the democratic process and given Adeleke the mandate to continue governing the state.
He advised the governor not to stigmatize or target his political opponents because of the election, urging him instead to work towards reconciliation and stability.
According to Tinubu, anyone who cannot celebrate a free and fair election misses the fundamental values of democracy.
The President cautioned Adeleke against allowing political differences to turn any individual into a victim of the campaign, stressing that his responsibility now extends beyond those who supported him.
He urged the governor to build a broad network of unity and govern with the interests of Osun State and future generations in mind.
Tinubu also said Adeleke should demonstrate gratitude to the people through his actions in government rather than relying only on celebrations and statements following his victory.
The President told Adeleke that he was in a unique position to make history by promoting peace, unity and stability in Osun State.
Tinubu also attributed Adeleke’s emergence to the support of the people, saying the outcome reflected the wishes of Osun voters.
He further praised Adeleke’s campaign efforts, describing them as evidence of what he called a progressive political instinct.The President’s message places emphasis on reconciliation following the election, with Adeleke now expected to govern the state while seeking cooperation across political divides.
