By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Lagos, Nigeria – August 23, 2025
Former Governor of Osun State and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, on Saturday in Lagos formally received members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) into the ADC, declaring that the party is prepared to “rescue Nigeria” in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the affirmation ceremony, Aregbesola said the ADC has come of age as a credible alternative to the dominant parties and is ready to chart a new course for the nation.
“The existing political order has failed Nigerians. What our people need is a fresh platform that guarantees good governance, inclusivity, and accountability. The ADC is that platform. By 2027, this party will be at the helm of affairs in Nigeria,” he declared.
The former interior minister emphasised that ADC is not merely another political party but a reformist movement driven by inclusivity. According to him, the party’s constitution mandates that no less than 50 per cent of elective and appointive positions be reserved for youths and women.
READ ALSO:PDP Governors Confront Wike, Vow to Hold November 15 Convention in Ibadan
“This is not tokenism. It is a conscious effort to give power to the people who represent Nigeria’s future. Our constitution already provides 35 percent for youths and 35 percent for women. When you look at the overlap, it guarantees that at least half of leadership positions will go to these groups,” Aregbesola explained.
He said the new defectors from PDP and Labour Party have joined a “progressive coalition” that would reshape Nigeria’s democracy and restore the confidence of citizens in political leadership.
ADC’s Growing Profile
Founded in 2005, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been positioning itself as a “third force” in Nigerian politics. Although smaller compared to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ADC has gained visibility in recent years, especially with its strong emphasis on youth participation, women empowerment, and grassroots mobilization.
READ ALSO:Ogun Residents Decry Delays on Abeokuta–Ifo–Ewekoro Road, One Year After Flag-Off
The party fielded candidates in the 2019 and 2023 general elections but did not make significant electoral gains. However, analysts suggest that the entry of heavyweight politicians such as Aregbesola and the recent defections from PDP and LP could reposition the ADC ahead of 2027.
Looking Ahead
Aregbesola assured that ADC will not only contest but also be competitive in the 2027 elections, urging Nigerians to embrace the party as a viable option for genuine transformation.
“We are here to build a Nigeria where the people truly matter. The ADC is not just preparing for elections; we are preparing for governance that will work for everyone,” he added.
The Lagos event marks one of the most significant political movements for the ADC in recent years, signalling a potential shake-up in Nigeria’s political landscape as the nation heads toward another election cycle.
