President Bola Tinubu hosted Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, reminding him that he won an election, not a conquest.
Tinubu cautioned the governor against targeting or stigmatizing his political opponents in the wake of the recent poll.
“Do not stigmatize any of your opponents. The people of Osun State have delivered their judgment in your favour, indicating their desire for you to lead. Therefore, you are returning to govern,” Persecondnews quotes the president as saying.
According to Tinubu, anyone who fails to celebrate a free and fair election does not deserve the joy and laughter that democracy brings.
“Any individual, any democrat, anyone within the political sphere who cannot rejoice in the triumph of a free and fair election does not deserve the joy and laughter that democracy offers.
“Do not make a single person a victim of your campaign. Avoid this, not just for your own sake, but for the sake of Osun and future generations. It is crucial for you to foster a network of unity.
“As I mentioned, you did not conquer anyone. You won an election. This is the essence of democracy. I am pleased that we had this discussion,” Tinubu told the governor.
The President said the best way to express gratitude to the people of Osun is to broaden his horizons, adding that it should not be “merely through words or celebrations but through your actions.”
Tinubu declared: “Use me as an example. I arrived here by divine providence. God placed me in this position. Similarly, God has placed you where you are today, not due to the cleverness of any individual.
“It is solely the support of the people, not their cleverness. It is the will of God that has prevailed, along with the wishes of the people for you.
“You are in a very unique position to make history. Foster unity, peace, and stability.”
The President also noted that Adeleke demonstrated a progressive instinct throughout his campaign.
“What you are currently doing reflects a progressive instinct. You have effectively mobilized with your efforts.”