*ODA Applauds Adeleke, Oyebamiji’s Show of Statesmanship, Urges Sustained Peace Ahead of Osun 2026 Election* | Blissful Affairs Online
The Osun Development Association (ODA) has commended the Governor of Osun State and Accord Governorship candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke, and the Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, for demonstrating political maturity and statesmanship during the funeral ceremonies of the late mother of the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru.
According to the Association, the cordial interaction between leaders of different political parties is a reassuring signal that political competition in Osun State need not come at the expense of peace, mutual respect, civility and our shared values as a people.
ODA noted that the gesture aligns perfectly with the objectives of the recently concluded Osun 2026 Democratic Governance, Peace and Electoral Integrity Summit, organized by the Association, where political leaders and other critical stakeholders collectively pledged to promote peaceful electioneering, issue-based campaigns and democratic engagement devoid of violence.
Commenting on the development, the Chairman of the Osun Development Association, Dr. Segun Aina, OFR, said, “this is exactly the kind of leadership our people expect to see. Political parties may differ in ideology and contest vigorously for votes, but they must never lose sight of our common humanity or the collective interest of Osun State. Respect across political divides is a hallmark of a mature democracy and an essential ingredient for peaceful elections.”
Dr. Aina expressed the hope that the spirit demonstrated at the funeral would become the defining culture of the forthcoming governorship election, with candidates, party leaders and supporters conducting themselves with restraint, dignity and respect for one another.
He further urged all political actors to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, intimidation and actions capable of heightening tensions. Dr Aina admonished that, “elections should be contests of ideas, competence and vision, and not contests of hostility or violence. The images witnessed at the funeral are a reminder that, despite political differences, we remain one people with a shared responsibility to preserve the peace and stability of our dear state.”
The ODA Chairman reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to sustain dialogue, promote civic responsibility and encourage peaceful participation throughout the electoral process.
“As we move towards the 2026 governorship election, every action that promotes unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence strengthens our democracy. The conduct displayed by Governor Ademola Adeleke and Senator Ajibola Basiru deserves commendation and should serve as an example to all political actors. ODA will continue to champion initiatives that encourage dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful democratic engagement for the benefit of all the people of Osun State.”
The Association reiterated that the peace, stability and development of Osun State remain a collective responsibility and called on all citizens to continue supporting initiatives that foster harmony before, during and after the elections.
Signed
Chris Adetayo
Publicity Secretary
Osun Development Association (ODA)
