Osun election shows people's power, says ex-APC leader

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Mr Timi Frank, has called Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the Osun State governorship election a strong sign of the power of the people. He also warned political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Frank shared his thoughts in a statement from Abuja on Monday. He said the result of Saturday’s election showed that voters could stand firm against political pressure, intimidation, and other challenges when they are determined to make their choices known at the polls.

The Independent National Electoral Commission announced Adeleke, the Accord Party candidate, as the winner of the election. He received 511,067 votes, defeating the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, who got 444,815 votes. Adeleke won by a margin of 66,252 votes.

In response to the election outcome, Frank said this should be an important message to political parties and candidates preparing for the 2027 presidential election. He remarked that President Bola Tinubu and other political figures should not think the results are already decided. The final decision rests with Nigerian voters.

"Nigerian people will decide his fate through the power of their votes," he noted. Frank, who is also the United Liberation Movement for West Papua Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, urged opposition parties to set aside their differences. They need to work together ahead of the 2027 elections.

He pointed out that the Osun election result shows a united opposition could challenge the ruling APC if voters stay engaged. Political parties must build strong structures to support this effort. He encouraged Nigerians, especially voters, to stay alert during the election process. He said participation should not stop after voting.

"Let 2027 not be business as usual. They must vote, stay, and see their votes counted, just as they have done in Osun," Frank added. He praised the people of Osun State for what he called their political cleverness. They resisted bribes but still voted according to their beliefs.

"I commend the people of Osun for this new political cleverness, where money is taken, yet they still voted for the candidate of their choice. After all, the money belongs to us as citizens, as it was taken from government coffers," he said.

The Osun election took place on Saturday. Adeleke was seeking a second term after winning the governorship in 2022. His latest victory shows a larger margin compared to the 2022 contest, according to an analysis of the results.

Frank called on Nigerians to remain peaceful while defending their votes through lawful means. He spoke about alleged harassment and intimidation during elections. He also praised Nigerian music star Davido for his interest in elections. He encouraged young Nigerians and celebrities to get more involved in democracy.

"Going into 2027, I call on Nigerian youths and celebrities to take a cue from Davido. This is not the time to sit back. Nigeria belongs to all of us," he said. Frank congratulated Adeleke, his supporters, and the people of Osun State. He described the election as a reminder of how important citizens’ participation is in democracy.

He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the electoral process. He argued that political power belongs to the people and that elected leaders should reflect the will of the voters.

"As we look towards 2027, let us remain peaceful, vigilant, informed, and determined. Let us encourage one another to engage actively in the electoral process and to protect our votes through lawful means.

The time has come for Nigerians to believe again. The time has come for the people to rise, vote, and protect their votes. The time has come to choose wisely," he added.

He concluded that the Osun election should inspire more people to participate in the 2027 elections. It should motivate Nigerians to work towards a political system that serves their interests.