Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has commended residents for turning out in large numbers to participate in Saturday’s governorship election, urging them to remain peaceful as the collation of results begins.

Adeleke, in a statement, said the safety and protection of residents remained a priority, while commending security agencies deployed across the state for their conduct during the election.

He urged security personnel to remain vigilant throughout the collation process, which will proceed from polling units to wards and local government areas.

“Against all odds, the people of Osun State have turned out in large numbers and are speaking with one voice,” Adeleke said.

“The safety and protection of our people is paramount. I commend the security agencies deployed for this election and urge them to remain vigilant as we move into the collation of results; from polling units to wards to local government areas.”

The governor also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold the highest standards of integrity throughout the collation and declaration of results.

He expressed confidence in the professionalism of the institutions involved in the electoral process, noting that the Federal Government had provided adequate security for the election.

“The federal government has provided adequate security, and I am confident in the professionalism of all institutions involved,” Adeleke said.

Adeleke stressed that democracy could only thrive when the wishes of voters were respected and the integrity of their votes protected.

“Democracy is at its strongest when we honour the wishes of our people and protect the sanctity of their votes,” he said.

The governor further appealed to Osun residents to remain law-abiding and peaceful throughout the remaining stages of the electoral process.

“To every Osun citizen: I urge you to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to this democratic moment,” he added.