Tinubu Allowed Adeleke to Win Osun Poll by Guaranteeing a Level Playing Field, Says Wike

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has declared that Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke emerged victorious in the governorship election because President Bola Tinubu ensured the poll was conducted freely and fairly.

Addressing journalists in Abuja during an inspection tour of flood-impacted communities, Wike dismissed allegations that the central government attempted to manipulate the electoral outcome. The minister emphasized that the result stands as clear proof that the current administration allowed democratic institutions to function without executive interference.

Wike highlighted President Tinubu’s swift telephone call to congratulate Governor Adeleke following the poll as evidence of democratic sportsmanship. He argued that if the Federal Government had intended to override the choice of the voters or tilt the outcome using state authority, the opposition candidate would not have prevailed.

Rebuffing claims regarding the use of political influence during elections, Wike referenced his personal history in opposition politics, noting that allegations of “federal might” are often used as convenient excuses following political defeat. Wike urged political leaders to accept electoral results rather than advancing unverified claims of federal intervention.