OSOGBO — Reactions have continued to trail former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s visit to Osun State Governor and Accord Party candidate, Ademola Adeleke, following his declaration as winner of the recently concluded governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Obasanjo’s visit, coming shortly after the announcement of the election result, has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some commending the former President for identifying with the governor while others urged him to extend similar gestures to the other candidates who contested the election.
Some commentators described the visit as a positive step capable of promoting peace and stability after a keenly contested election.
One commentator, however, argued that Obasanjo should have used the opportunity to visit the other contestants as well, stressing that, at his age and status, the former President should play a greater role as a unifying figure.
“Baba should have seized the opportunity to visit the other contestants as well. At this age, he should play more roles of a unifier; though as a political animal, he will definitely have his preferred candidates,” the commentator said.
Another reaction criticised Obasanjo’s political record, recalling events surrounding elections during his administration and questioning the consistency of his current position.
“OBJ did not allow such to happen during his regime in Ekiti,” the commentator wrote.
Other reactions were more supportive, with some Nigerians praying for the former President’s continued good health and strength.
“May God continue to bless OBJ with strength and good health,” one person said, while another simply wrote, “Kudos to Baba.”
There were also comments reflecting ethnic and political interpretations of the visit, with one commentator saying, “Ṣé Yorùbá ni àwọn eléyìí nítorí Ọlọ́run!” while another asked, “I hope OBJ isn’t here because of Obi?”
Another contributor expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying: “Nigeria will be okay, if Allah wills.”
The varying reactions highlight the intense political sensitivities surrounding the Osun election and the role of prominent national figures following electoral contests.
While supporters of Adeleke and the Accord Party have welcomed Obasanjo’s visit, others believe that prominent statesmen should use such moments to reach out to all sides, particularly candidates who may feel aggrieved by the outcome.
Political observers say post-election gestures by respected national figures can play an important role in promoting reconciliation, reducing tension and encouraging contestants and their supporters to accept democratic outcomes.
As political parties and candidates await the next steps in the aftermath of the Osun election, Obasanjo’s visit has once again placed the former President at the centre of public discussion over leadership, political neutrality and the need for unity after elections.
