Members of the ruling party in Osun State and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are warming up for a victory party as the state awaits the announcement of the official result of yesterday’s governorship election.

There was jubilation by APC faithful in parts of the capital city of Osogbo and elsewhere across the state as early as 6pm as early results showed the APC candidate, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to have powered into the lead, although with stiff competition from his main challenger, Senator Iyiola Omisore of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

While Aregbesola swept many areas of Osogbo, Ede and Ilesha, Omisore was leading in Ile-Ife and some other towns across the state. Both candidates have commended the Independent national Electoral Commission (INEC) for the transparent nature of the election, which has also been peaceful.

A total of 1,407,222 registered voters spread across three senatorial districts, were expected to vote in the election, which recorded a large turn-out of voters. Accreditation began as early as 8:00am and ended at 12:00 noon, while voting also started and ended in good time. A total of 20 political parties fielded candidates for the election and collation of results is on-going. News Express will serve updates as they break.

•Photo shows Governor Aregbesola.