The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State has officially unveiled its new state executive committee ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The event, held in Osogbo, brought together delegates from all 30 local government areas under tight security provided by the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS).
During the congress, which was supervised by Mudashiru Akinlabi, chairman of the ADC Congress Committee, Issa Adesiji was elected state chairman, while Lani Baderinwa emerged as secretary through a consensus arrangement. Other key appointments included Adepeju Adigun as Treasurer, Funmilade Oyebode as Women Leader, Ademola Owoade as Youth Leader, and Oluwaseun Abosede as Publicity Secretary.
ADC governorship candidate Najeem Folasayo Salaam used the occasion to highlight the strategic rationale behind his choice of a female running mate, Yemisi Agiri. Salaam said the decision was aimed at broadening representation and promoting inclusive governance in Osun State. “We chose a female running mate for strategic reasons, and we are committed to building a government of inclusion that will consider the interests of all groups in decision-making,” he stated.
In his acceptance speech, Adesiji acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that the party was emerging from a period of inactivity and would need to work quickly to mount a competitive campaign. “I call on all members of this brand new Osun Exco to tighten up their belts for the big task ahead of us,” he said. “We are taking the party from almost a point of inertia, coupled with having a ‘must win’ governorship election in four months’ time.”
Adesiji urged party leaders and members to rally behind the new executive team, emphasising that teamwork would be crucial to achieving electoral success. He also called on people of goodwill to join the ADC’s efforts to secure victory in the upcoming election.
The congress marks a significant step in the ADC’s preparations for the Osun governorship poll, with the party positioning itself as a credible alternative committed to inclusive governance and broad-based representation.
