Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on political actors in Nigeria to emulate Ghana’s democracy and respect for people’s will.
Adeleke made the call in his congratulatory message to the newly elected president of Ghana, John Mahama.
The statement issued by Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Monday, described Mahama as “a true democrat and a genuine friend of Nigeria.”
According to the governor, since his path crossed that of the new Ghanaian leader, they have been sharing deep thoughts about the true essence of democracy and the imperative of respect for people’s will as the bedrock of virile democratic state.
He said all through Mahama’s days in the opposition, he adopted the best of democratic model with unbending faith in the capacity of voters to decide and the necessity of the system to accept the voters’ will as expressed without any equivocation.
Adeleke said the President’s elect’s faith in the electorate amidst hard work of electioneering campaigns paid off with a resounding victory at the polls.
He urged relevant authorities in Nigeria to take a cue from the electioneering process in Ghana, saying, “I further commend the ruling party for conceding defeat without attempting any electoral hijack. This was a demonstration of electoral maturity worthy of emulation by actors within the Nigerian space.
“I rejoice with my dear brother as our dreams come true by the grace of God and the people. As he prepares to return to the State House, I have no doubt that he will take Ghana to greater heights.”
He added, “I call for a closer, more robust relationship between Nigeria and Ghana. Both countries must deepen cooperation under mutual respect and opportunities. Our brotherly relationship should extend to the sub-national level for the benefits of citizens and residents of our dear nations.”
