Samuel Omang
In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola have emerged as the interim National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively, of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The announcement marks a major step in the long-anticipated formation of a broad opposition coalition against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The appointments were ratified during a high-level meeting of opposition stakeholders held Tuesday night in Abuja, confirming weeks of behind-the-scenes consultations among key political figures seeking a unified platform.
The emerging coalition includes a formidable lineup of opposition leaders, among them former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi; former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai; and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
In his acceptance speech, Aregbesola articulated a bold vision for the ADC, emphasising a departure from personality-driven politics toward a party rooted in democratic ideals, accountability, and national development.
“The ADC will not be a platform for opportunism or personal ambition,” Aregbesola declared, calling instead for a political organisation guided by ideology, principle, and a people-centred struggle.
He praised South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) for its model of party supremacy over government and pledged to foster internal democracy, ensure transparency in intra-party competition, and strengthen all party structures for effective functionality.
“Our goal is to build a party that prioritises democratic values, the rule of law, social justice, accountability, and national development,” Aregbesola said.
He also stressed the need to empower marginalised groups, including women, youth, educators, farmers, security personnel, and people with special needs, through robust autonomous structures within the party.
Citing examples from global democracies like Sweden, Chile, Kenya, and South Africa, the former governor promised to institute international best practices in party ethics, discipline, and internal governance.
“Discipline, order, clarity of purpose, and service to the people must define us,” he noted, adding that political promises must translate into tangible outcomes—like building schools to improve education or supporting community-based safety policies.
Aregbesola concluded his speech with a call for active participation and accountability, urging party members to hold the leadership to high standards as they strive to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.
“Long live our party. Long live our democracy. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he proclaimed.
The ADC’s leadership overhaul is seen as a strategic move to consolidate Nigeria’s fragmented opposition ahead of the crucial 2027 polls.