Eminent businessman and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu, has felicitated with the winner of the August 9 governorship election in Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola,
Kalu noted that the Osun State election has given Nigerians more confidence in President Goodluck Jonathan’s commitment to credible elections anchored on one man, one vote.
Kalu, who commended the electorate for the large turnout and peaceful conduct, described Aregbesola’s victory as a testimony to his good work and popularity among his people.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Prince ‘Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu stated that in any contest, a winner must emerge.
He said: “I extend my goodwill message to all the contestants in the Osun governorship election for the maturity displayed right from the electioneering to the post-election period. “I urge everyone to accept the results in good faith and to support the governor in moving the state forward.
“The governor should run an all-inclusive and participatory government in the interest of the state.”
Kalu urged Aregbesola to see his victory as a challenge to consolidate on his achievements in his first tenure of office.
The Ekiti State Governor-Elect, Ayodele Fayose, has also sent a message of congratulations to Aregbesola.
In a statement on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, Fayose said Aregbesola’s victory was a plus for democracy in Nigeria as it showed that Nigerians could conduct their affairs in peaceful and orderly manner.
He expressed confidence that as the incoming governor of Ekiti State, he would have a pleasant working relationship with Aregbesola in the bid to move their states and the South West geopolitical zone forward.
Fayose also lauded the Independent National Electoral commission for conducting a transparent poll devoid of rancour despite initial fears in some quarters.
Fayose also lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for championing the cause of credible elections in Nigeria and standing firmly by it.
The Ekiti State governor-elect also commended security agents for providing adequate security before, during and after the election and not allowing anybody to be able to foment trouble.
He reiterated his promise to lift Ekiti State to higher level and solicited the support of all in the task ahead.