Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the Osun governorship election, has accepted the outcome of the poll and urged party members to unite ahead of the 2027 general election.
Ademola Adeleke, the Accord candidate, was declared the winner of the August 15 governorship election.
In a statement on Saturday, Oyebamiji thanked APC members for supporting his campaign, commending their “sacrifices, resilience, prayers and unwavering belief” in him.
He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, Bisi Akande, former governor of Osun, and Adegboyega Oyetola, minister of marine and blue economy, for their guidance and support.
While accepting the election result, Oyebamiji said the violence recorded during the poll should not be overlooked.
“While we accept the outcome of the election and congratulate the winner, we cannot forget the painful incidents of violence and the lives that were lost,” he said.
“I mourn every victim of political violence and stand in solidarity with their families.
“I call on the relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. No political contest should cost any Nigerian their life.”
Oyebamiji said his commitment to Osun remained unwavering despite the conclusion of the election.
He added that where there were legitimate concerns, his camp would continue to pursue “justice and fairness through lawful and constitutional means”.
Turning to the 2027 general election, the APC candidate urged party members and supporters to strengthen their structures and work together.
“As we now turn our attention to the 2027 general election, I call on every APC member and supporter to close ranks, strengthen our structures and rededicate ourselves to the task ahead,” he said.
“Our immediate responsibility is to mobilise for the re-election of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the success of all our candidates in Osun state.”
Adeleke had earlier extended an olive branch to Oyebamiji and other candidates following his re-election, urging them to put their differences aside and support his administration.
The governor also called on Oyebamiji to congratulate him, describing the election as a contest with “no victor, no vanquished”.
