Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has distanced himself from the political controversy surrounding the Osun State governorship election, stating that he had no voting rights in the state and therefore could not have influenced the choice made by its electorate.
Speaking in Owerri, the governor said the outcome of the election was determined solely by eligible voters in Osun, urging critics to direct their concerns through the appropriate democratic channels.
His reaction followed comments by music star Davido, who criticised some political figures in the aftermath of the poll. Addressing the issue, Uzodimma maintained that while politicians may participate in campaigns across the country, the authority to elect a governor rests exclusively with registered voters in the state where the election is held.
“I am not an Osun voter.”
The governor said it was incorrect to suggest that political leaders from outside Osun dictated the result of the election.
He explained that electioneering is a legitimate aspect of democracy, but campaign activities should not be confused with the actual voting process. According to him, once campaigns end, it is the electorate that decides who occupies public office through the ballot.
Uzodimma noted that his involvement during the election period was limited to supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a party member, stressing that such participation did not amount to interference with the electoral process. He added that respecting the will of the people remains a fundamental principle of democratic governance.
“The people of Osun have exercised their constitutional right to choose their governor.”
He also appealed for restraint in post-election discussions, urging political actors, public figures and their supporters to avoid comments capable of escalating tensions.
The governor said disagreements over election outcomes should be resolved through legal and constitutional mechanisms rather than through personal attacks or inflammatory public statements.
Political analysts say the exchange illustrates the growing influence of social media and
The Osun governorship election has continued to generate nationwide debate among politicians, entertainers and civil society groups.
While public reactions have remained diverse, observers say Uzodimma’s remarks reaffirm the constitutional position that electoral mandates derive from the votes cast by citizens of the state, not from endorsements or criticism by personalities outside its borders.
