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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has congratulated Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election in the August 15 governorship election, describing the victory as a renewed mandate to deepen development across the state.
The monarch called on all political actors to put the election behind them and work together in the interest of the people, stressing that the post-election period should usher in unity, reconciliation and purposeful governance.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Senior Media Officer at the Ooni's Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni said Adeleke's victory comes with a greater responsibility to serve every resident of the state without discrimination.
According to the Ooni, while elections are naturally characterised by political competition, governance requires inclusiveness and collaboration among all stakeholders.
"Your victory comes with a renewed responsibility to serve the entire people of Osun State, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnic background, religious belief or geographical location. The election is over, but the work of building a stronger, more prosperous and peaceful Osun has only just begun," he said.
The traditional ruler commended the people of Osun for their peaceful participation in the electoral process and urged politicians, candidates and supporters to embrace peace and avoid actions capable of creating division.
He advised Governor Adeleke to extend an olive branch to his political opponents and focus on healing any divisions that may have arisen during the electioneering period.
The Ooni said the governor's second term should consolidate existing achievements while implementing policies and projects that would improve the welfare of the people and drive sustainable development.
He urged the administration to prioritise youth empowerment, job creation, education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism and the creative economy, describing them as critical sectors for the state's future.
The monarch also acknowledged ongoing infrastructure projects, including the completed Lagere Flyover in Ile-Ife and the Mayfair-Enuwa road dualisation project, urging the government to sustain the pace of development and extend it to other communities.
He emphasised that Osun should shift its focus from political competition to economic growth, investment and inclusive development capable of creating opportunities for young people and businesses.
The Ooni further called for stronger collaboration between the state government and traditional institutions, noting that monarchs remain key partners in promoting peace, preserving culture and advancing grassroots development.
He assured Governor Adeleke of the continued support of traditional rulers in initiatives aimed at fostering peace, youth development, tourism and economic growth.
The Ooni also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, election officials, observers and the media for their roles in the successful conduct of the election.
He urged Governor Adeleke to regard his re-election as a call to greater service and to make his second term one that would leave a lasting legacy for future generations of Osun people.
The monarch prayed for wisdom, strength and divine guidance for the governor as he begins another four-year term, expressing hope that the renewed mandate would usher in greater peace, prosperity and development across Osun State.
