Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has commended the people of the state for their resilience, courage and commitment to democracy as Osun marks its 35th anniversary.
In a state broadcast to commemorate Osun @35, Adeleke expressed gratitude to residents for their contributions to the growth and development of the state over the past 35 years.
The governor acknowledged the pains and sacrifices suffered by residents in recent months, particularly following the governorship election, which he said disrupted the lives of many people and resulted in the loss of lives and injuries.
Adeleke sympathised with families who lost loved ones and those who were injured, assuring them that their sacrifices would not be in vain.
He praised the people of Osun for their commitment to democracy and the rule of law, noting that they resisted the temptation to take the law into their own hands despite what he described as severe provocations and violence.
According to him, residents demonstrated courage by trooping out to exercise their voting rights on election day despite the prevailing tension.
“Amidst the reign of terror, you rejected the guns and embraced the ballot. As true sons and daughters of the Source, you not only voted but you defended your votes even at personal risk to your lives,” Adeleke said.
The governor described the recent governorship election as one of the toughest tests of the character of Osun people since the creation of the state.
He said the conduct of residents and the outcome of the election demonstrated that Osun remained a state of valour, integrity and strong democratic values.
Adeleke added that the people’s actions had positioned Osun as a shining example of democratic practice in Nigeria.
He also said the sacrifices made by residents in defence of democracy and the rule of law represented a fitting tribute to the founding fathers of Osun State.
The governor, who noted that residents had renewed his leadership mandate under difficult circumstances, pledged to heal divisions, unite the people and promote equity and fairness.
“As you have again conferred the leadership mandate on me under recent difficult circumstances, I promise to heal the wounds, unite the people and uphold equity and fairness,” he said.
Adeleke further assured the people that his administration would remain inclusive and receptive to criticism as it continues its efforts to strengthen development across Osun State.
He urged residents to remain committed to peace, unity and the continued progress of the state as Osun celebrates 35 years of its creation.
