The Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijeshaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, has described Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election as a “divine judgement”, saying the outcome of the August 15 governorship election demonstrated the triumph of God’s will over human scheming.
The monarch spoke on Saturday when Adeleke visited his palace, describing the governor as “the David of our time” and commending his faith in God, particularly his practice of praise worship and thanksgiving.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the monarch cautioned those who mocked Adeleke over his praise dancing, recalling the biblical account involving David and his wife.
Oba Haastrup said the incident demonstrated the importance of praising God and warned critics against ridiculing those who expressed their gratitude to God through worship.
The monarch also said the atmosphere of fear and violence in parts of Ijeshaland had raised concerns about the safety and wellbeing of the governor.
He, however, said Adeleke remained steadfast in his faith, adding that God protected him throughout the difficult period.
Oba Haastrup praised the governor’s first-term performance, saying Adeleke had recorded achievements across the 30 local government areas of the state.
He also commended the people of Osun for standing by the governor and refusing to abandon a leader they believed had served them diligently.
The monarch further commended Adeleke for establishing the N500 million compensation fund for victims of election violence, as well as the Adeleke family’s scholarship programme for children of people who lost their lives during the electoral crisis.
He described the initiatives as evidence of the family’s commitment to the welfare of Osun residents.
Oba Haastrup also praised Adeleke for reaching out to members of the opposition after the election, urging him to sustain the reconciliation process.
He said the responsibility before both Adeleke and President Bola Tinubu was to heal political wounds and unite the people, expressing confidence that the governor would support the President’s re-election bid.
The monarch charged Adeleke to remain committed to genuine service and intensify infrastructural development across towns and villages in Osun State.
He also prayed for the governor’s continued good health, wisdom and success in his second term.
Responding, Adeleke thanked traditional rulers across the state for their support during the election, acknowledging that many monarchs came under tremendous pressure but stood by what they believed was right.
Presenting his certificate of return to the Owa Obokun, the governor described the election as “near war”, saying he looked up to God throughout the process and believed God answered his prayers.
Adeleke said his administration would continue with its reconciliation efforts, stressing that he would remain committed to his declaration that “there is no winner, no vanquished.”