The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on securing re-election in the Osun governorship poll, describing the victory as another opportunity to advance the state’s growth and prosperity.

The monarch’s message was contained in a statement released on Monday in Ile-Ife by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal.

Oba Ogunwusi stated that with the election now concluded, attention should shift toward fostering unity, reconciliation, and inclusive governance across Osun State.

He noted that elections naturally generate differing interests and competition but stressed the need for all stakeholders to rise above political divisions and work together for the state’s collective advancement.

According to the royal father, Adeleke’s renewed mandate comes with the responsibility of serving every resident of the state, regardless of political leaning, ethnicity, religion, or location, while sustaining peace and harmony across Osun.

Ogunwusi praised residents for participating peacefully in the democratic process and urged politicians, supporters, candidates, and other stakeholders to embrace reconciliation and maintain peace following the electoral exercise.

He specifically encouraged the governor to reach out to his political rivals and mend any divisions that may have arisen during the campaign period through meaningful engagement and dialogue.

The Ooni further advised Adeleke to place governance above partisan interests by building on existing achievements and introducing initiatives capable of delivering enduring benefits to communities throughout the state.

He also called for increased investment in youth development, job creation, education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and the creative industry, describing these sectors as vital to Osun’s long-term progress.

The monarch acknowledged ongoing infrastructure projects, including the completed Lagere Flyover in Ile-Ife and the dualisation of the road connecting Mayfair and Enuwa, while urging the government to extend similar development efforts to other parts of the state.

According to him, Osun should transition from political rivalry to economic competitiveness, from election campaigns to meaningful development, and from division to cooperation in order to create opportunities for young people and stimulate business growth.

He also advocated stronger collaboration between government and traditional institutions, noting that traditional rulers play significant roles in preserving peace, mobilising communities, safeguarding cultural heritage, and promoting grassroots development.

Ogunwusi commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, election officials, observers, members of the media, and other stakeholders for their roles in the electoral process. He urged Adeleke to make his second tenure count by consolidating on previous achievements and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations in Osun State.