Amanze ChinonyeRauf Aregbesola, Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called for unity among party members as they set their sights on defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a meeting with ADC members in Akure, Ondo State, on Thursday, Aregbesola emphasised the need for the party to set aside personal differences and rally together in a collective effort to unseat the APC, which currently holds power.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“A united front is our most powerful tool,” Aregbesola said. “We must put aside individual interests and focus on the common goal of rescuing Nigeria. The 2027 elections will not just be about the presidency but also national and state assembly races. We have time to prepare, but the task ahead is great. If we stand united, we will not be defeated.”
Aregbesola’s appeal came as the ADC continued to build momentum for the upcoming elections, receiving backing from prominent opposition figures. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party leader Peter Obi have both lent their support to the ADC’s coalition movement, which aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The former governor of Osun State also expressed confidence in the growing support for the ADC, noting the party’s increasing popularity among Nigeria’s opposition ranks.
“We have strong allies, and our coalition is gaining strength,” he added. “Together, we can bring change to this country.”
Gbenga Edema, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) candidate for the 2024 Ondo State governorship election, also spoke at the meeting. He explained that the purpose of the gathering was to provide ADC members in the state with updates on the progress of the coalition.
“Less than two weeks ago, the coalition officially adopted ADC as the party to carry our movement forward,” Edema said. “Aregbesola’s visit was a chance to brief us on the coalition’s direction and assure us that ongoing legal challenges are of no consequence to our plans. The opposition has exaggerated these court cases, but they pose no threat to our mission.”
Akin Akinbobola, a former Nigerian Premier League board member and media head, added his voice to the discussion, stressing the urgency of coming together to address Nigeria’s worsening situation.
“Nigeria is sinking,” Akinbobola declared. “We’re facing severe economic hardship, rising insecurity, and the collapse of critical sectors. The country needs a fresh direction, and the coalition is offering that, using the ADC as the platform for real change.”
Akinbobola, who has held various leadership positions, including Senior Special Assistant to former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, hinted that more influential political figures would soon join the ADC. He noted that the coalition had already brought together representatives from 10 political parties, with more expected to join as the movement formalizes its structure.
“As the coalition grows, managing such a large alliance may be challenging,” Akinbobola acknowledged. “But there is room for everyone. Once we solidify our structure, the movement will gain unstoppable momentum. We are in the early stages, but the tide is turning.”
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
