Rauf Aregbesola, a former Nigerian Interior Minister and senior official of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has launched an ambitious campaign to rally support for his party ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging citizens to reject the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking at a heavily attended mobilization event in Lagos State’s Kosofe Local Government Area, Aregbesola criticized the APC, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP) for what he described as systemic failures in governance and development.
“These parties have collectively failed Nigerians,” he said, addressing supporters amid cheers. Positioning the ADC as a viable alternative, Aregbesola claimed it alone could “reset the country on the path of progress” through inclusive policies and transparent leadership. The rally, part of a nationwide push to fortify the party’s base, drew a sizable crowd despite logistical delays, signaling growing grassroots interest in the ADC’s agenda.
Aregbesola emphasized the need for intensified voter education and registration efforts, particularly under Nigeria’s ongoing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) program. He urged members to “protect their votes” during elections—a nod to recurring concerns about electoral integrity in the country. Supporters were tasked with spreading the ADC’s message locally, with promises of incentives for effective mobilizers. “A new era of hope is within reach,” he declared.
The event also underscored rising political tensions between Aregbesola and his former allies in the APC, including President Bola Tinubu, whom he once aligned with closely. Observers noted his sharpened critique of the Lagos APC leadership, suggesting a deepening rift. Key ADC figures, including Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru and community leaders Rahman Owokoniran and Funmi Onita-Coker, echoed calls for unity and expanded outreach. Ashiru vowed to prioritize equitable representation, assuring newcomers and long-standing members alike of “equal opportunities” within the party.
With membership card distribution set to begin soon, the ADC aims to consolidate its presence ahead of the 2027 polls. Analysts view the mobilization drive as a strategic move to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction with dominant parties, though the ADC’s ability to translate rhetoric into electoral success remains untested on a national scale. For now, Aregbesola’s campaign signals a potential shake-up in Nigeria’s political landscape, as opposition groups position themselves to challenge the status quo.
