Osun Guber: Federal might, Abuja influence cannot override public goodwill – Showunmi

A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and convener of the Alternative, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has declared that the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke in Osun has proven that federal influence and Abuja politics can no longer override goodwill earned through performance at the grassroots.

Showunmi in a statement on Sunday, said the Osun governorship election delivered a clear verdict that voters now prioritise local results over national power.

He argued that voters are becoming more independent in their choices, stressing that the era where political endorsements alone could guarantee victory is fading.  

Part of the statement reads, “The outcome of the Osun governorship election has once again demonstrated that the Yoruba people remain largely republican in outlook but their democratic culture is steadily maturing. The electorate has sent several clear messages that political actors across the country would do well to study carefully.

“First, the people appear to have little tolerance for anything that resembles bullying or the excessive use of power. There is often a natural inclination to identify with the perceived underdog, and when voters believe that one side is being unfairly pressured, they are increasingly willing to make their feelings known at the ballot box.

“Second, Osun has reinforced an enduring political reality: governorship elections are fundamentally about the governor. Regardless of what happens in Abuja, a popular governor enjoys a significant advantage. Federal influence may matter, but it cannot easily override local goodwill earned through performance, accessibility, and public perception.

“Third, voters are becoming bolder and more independent in their choices. The era when political endorsements alone guaranteed electoral outcomes appears to be fading. Citizens are increasingly exercising their judgment and voting according to their convictions.

Showunmi congratulated Governor Adeleke, saying the victory was proof that the people rewarded service delivery and not political pressure from the center.

He warned political parties against neglecting internal stakeholders, saying structure without loyalty is useless on election day.  

“Those who wield power within political parties without adequately carrying stakeholders along may discover, often too late, that party structures do not automatically translate into enthusiastic support,” he stated.

He, however, condemned the violence and loss of lives recorded during the election, describing it as unacceptable.  

“No political contest is worth the blood of any citizen. Those responsible for election-related violence must face the consequences of their actions,” he added.