The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly dismissed reports suggesting its National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, is planning to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), as he addressed party supporters during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ilesa on Sunday. Aregbesola, a former two-term governor of Osun State, emphasized that he has no intention of rejoining his former party, calling the speculation “a figment of their imagination.” He pointed to the current leadership of the APC as having strayed from its founding principles and failed to address the worsening economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
In his remarks, Aregbesola expressed deep gratitude to ADC members for their unwavering support despite persistent attacks, intimidation, and political pressure from opponents. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to being a credible alternative to the ruling party, especially in Osun State. “We are ADC, and despite their attacks, we continue to grow in leaps and bounds,” he stated, urging party members not to waver. He also highlighted the qualifications of the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam Iwaloye, describing him as loyal, committed, and determined to restore Osun’s development trajectory from 2018.
Dr. Najeem Salaam, in his own address, called on party members to remain united and vigilant as the August 15 governorship election approaches. He outlined key priorities for his administration, including job creation, poverty reduction, tackling inequality, and providing affordable housing. He stressed that his leadership would focus on reversing the governance failures experienced by Osun residents over the past seven and a half years.
Alhaji Azeez Adesiji, the Osun ADC Chairman-elect, also spoke at the event, affirming the party’s unity and strength at both state and federal levels. He congratulated newly elected ward, local government, and state executives, describing their roles as both a privilege and a responsibility. Adesiji expressed confidence in Salaam’s victory, attributing it to hard work, unity, and divine support. “Dr. Najeem Salaam will be elected on August 15 by the grace of God,” he declared.
The ADC announced plans to launch its statewide campaign within one week, with activities covering all local government areas and including rallies across the nine federal constituencies. The campaign will culminate in two major rallies in Ile-Ife and Osogbo. Aregbesola was praised for his leadership, with party members thanking him for guiding the party through challenges. The gathering underscored the ADC’s determination to win the upcoming election and deliver on its promise of change for Osun State.
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