Professor of Political Economy Pat Utomi has hailed the outcome of the recent Osun State governorship election as proof that voters can overcome electoral manipulation. In a statement posted on his verified X handle, Utomi declared that the people’s will prevailed in Osun, drawing a parallel to previous Elections in Kano where popular turnout defeated attempts at rigging.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke the winner after he secured 511,067 votes across 19 local government areas. His closest rival, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), polled 444,815 votes and won in 11 local government areas.
Reacting to the result, Utomi wrote: “Nigeria we hail thee. So the people triumphed in the state of Osun. Like in Kano in years before, the people proved that their will can triumph over the forces of rigging. Massive turn out and a fighting spirit can save democracy. On to 2027 in confidence.”
The election was closely watched as a test of electoral integrity in Nigeria’s off-cycle governorship contests. Adeleke’s victory marks a second term for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the southwestern state, following his initial win in 2022. Observers noted high voter participation and a generally peaceful process, despite pre-election tensions.
Utomi, a longtime advocate for democratic reform and civic engagement, has consistently emphasized the power of mass mobilization in safeguarding elections. His reference to Kano recalls the 2023 governorship election in that northern state, where a surge in voter turnout was credited with resisting interference.
The Osun result is expected to resonate in political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with analysts suggesting it reinforces the message that credible outcomes depend on active citizen participation. For now, the focus shifts to governance as Adeleke prepares to consolidate his mandate amid lingering challenges in security, infrastructure, and economic development across the state.
