The APC governorship candidate, however, appealed to party members and support groups to remain calm, as the results of the election were being studied.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Teslim Folarin, has congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde on his victory in the 18 March governorship election in the state.

Mr Folarin's congratulatory message was contained in a statement released on Monday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after polling 568,756 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr Folarin, who scored 256,685.

In his message, Mr Folarin expressed appreciation to the electorate in the state for their support of APC candidates in the just-concluded general elections.

He also expressed gratitude to God for preserving the lives of the people throughout the electioneering process and to his friends and political allies for their overwhelming support.

He commended members of the 2023 Oyo State APC Presidential and Governorship Campaign Council for their issue-based campaigns, loyalty, dedication and commitment to the struggle.

"My gratitude also goes to the coalition parties, candidates of other political parties, volunteers, the press and individuals that contributed to the 'Itesiwaju Ipinle Oyo 2023' project," he said.

The APC governorship candidate, however, appealed to party members and support groups to remain calm, as the results of the election were being studied.

"It is God that gives and takes power. May Oyo State and our people continue to prosper," he said.

(NAN)