OSOGBO — Osun State erupted in celebration on Saturday as news of Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke’s victory spread across the state, with residents trooping out in large numbers from Osogbo to Ede to mark the occasion.
Streets, major roundabouts and motor parks in Osogbo were filled with supporters. Bikes, cars and buses moved in convoys with occupants in high spirits, blasting loud music, shouting, blowing trumpets and dancing. Some groups hired DJs while others used the now popular mp3 loud players to amplify music and chants.
In Ede, the governor’s hometown, the atmosphere resembled a carnival as youths and residents lined the streets in celebration.
Many residents expressed extreme joy that despite what they described as intimidation during the campaign and on election day, Adeleke emerged victorious. Several people spoke glowingly of the work the governor had done in the last four years. Others pointed out that the governor maintained restraint and discipline throughout the process, which they said contributed to the positive outcome.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security Matters, Hon. Taofeek Alapadupe, described the atmosphere surrounding the election as overwhelming.
According to him, the large turnout and support recorded across the state reflected the people’s strong appreciation for Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“The election generated significant excitement among residents, with many people turning out to participate in the electoral process,” Alapadupe said.
He noted that the level of mobilisation and participation demonstrated the strong connection between the people and the governor, adding that the enthusiasm was evident in several communities across the state.
Alapadupe said in his area, youths marked the victory by slaughtering a cow to celebrate.
He added that Governor Adeleke had consistently shown appreciation to the people for their support and had made efforts to test his capacity to deliver on his promises.
“The Governor’s programmes and engagements with the people had produced positive results, contributing to the large number of residents who came out to express their support,” he said.
He further described the mood during the election as so overwhelming that it left many people impressed, calling the turnout and general mood “a clear indication of the level of enthusiasm surrounding the exercise.”
The celebrations continued late into the evening as groups gathered in different parts of Osogbo to dance and celebrate what supporters called a well-deserved victory for the governor.
