Their thumb, their right: Lessons from Osun, by Fatai ADEWUYI

Their thumb, their right: Lessons from Osun, by Fatai ADEWUYI

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The Saturday, 15th August, 2026, Osun state gubernatorial election confirms a democratic saying that the right of the electorates is in their thumb. This election has left much to be desired in the history of elections, Osun state in particular and Nigeria in general, as there are many lessons to be drawn therefrom.

Firstly, it points to the fact that the electorates retain the right to decide their choice even in the face of victimization and harassment. In spite of the widespread intimidation, the people decided by voting into power their governor in person of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Secondly, the election showed the neutrality of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu despite being the incumbent. This is evident in the returning governor commending him as being instrumental to his reelection. obviously, the mobilisation of monitoring teams and security officers to ensure free and fair election came from the Presidency.

Thirdly, the election underscored the growing irrelevance of money politics in Nigeria. Subsequently, money will not sway people’s votes especially in the 2027 general elections. In Osun last Saturday, despite the money and food items doled out to buy the electorates, the people decided based on their conviction. That should be a vital lesson to politicians in the future.

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Fourthly, the Osun election has proved reelection as reward for good governance. Ademola Adeleke’s reelection is a reward of his good governance, doing greatly to improve the state, and transforming the state from being an impoverished state to a wealthy state where workers are paid their salaries regularly, pensioners are paid their pensions and infrastructures and social amenities are provided the people. So, with all these the Osun people have nothing to desire again than to pay back by reelecting voting him in.

Finally, the Osun people have set the pace, let other states do same by voting according to their conscience, putting aside sentiment and politiking.

May God make the forthcoming 2027 general elections peaceful and decisive for the betterment of our country Nigeria through having the right leaders elected.

Aamin. Alhaji Adewuyi, a member Ogbomoso Muslim Justice Forum, OMJF, sends this piece via 08130851574.

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