Former Osun Governor Aregbesola Launches Mass ADC Membership Drive in Lagos, Calls for APC’s Ouster
Political Heavyweight Accuses Ruling Party of Failure, Faces Swift Backlash from APC
In a bold political maneuver that’s shaking Nigeria’s electoral landscape, Rauf Aregbesola, the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Osun State governor, has initiated a sweeping membership campaign for his new party across Lagos State. The seasoned politician didn’t mince words as he lambasted both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for what he termed “catastrophic governance failures.”
A New Political Dawn or Desperate Gambit?
Addressing supporters in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Aregbesola positioned the ADC as the nation’s political salvation. “I’m urging you to spread the gospel of ADC to all Nigerians,” declared the former minister, his voice reportedly charged with conviction. “A new vista of hope now awaits in our party—we promise a reset that will put Nigeria back on the path of genuine development.”
The former APC stalwart turned critic outlined an ambitious grassroots strategy:
- Mass mobilization at local government levels
- Public sensitization campaigns about ADC’s “new deal”
- Voter education on electoral vigilance
- Promised incentives for successful recruiters
“Use the ADC platform to remove this failed APC government,” Aregbesola challenged the crowd, his words striking at the heart of Nigeria’s political establishment. “But remember—voting isn’t enough. You must protect your votes through follow-up vigilance.”
APC Fires Back: “Betrayal of Trust”
The ruling party’s Lagos chapter responded with artillery-grade rhetoric. Seye Oladejo, APC’s Lagos spokesman, painted Aregbesola’s defection as the ultimate political betrayal.
“This reeks of desperation and opportunism,” Oladejo countered. “How can a man who rode APC’s platform to become commissioner, governor, and federal minister now denounce the same party? If APC failed, then Aregbesola must own his part in that failure.”
The APC’s rebuttal highlighted several key arguments:
- Aregbesola’s two-decade tenure within APC structures
- Questionable timing of his political conversion
- Alleged lack of substantive policy alternatives
- Confidence in Lagos APC’s continued dominance
“We welcome criticism but reject falsehoods,” Oladejo stated, dismissing the ADC’s mobilization as “political theatrics.” The spokesman emphasized APC’s commitment to delivering democratic dividends, asserting the party remains “united and focused” despite defections.
Political Analysts Weigh In
This heated exchange comes at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s political calendar. Some observers see Aregbesola’s move as:
- A strategic play to position ADC as the main opposition alternative
- Personal political rehabilitation after strained APC relations
- Testing waters for broader anti-APC coalition building
Others question whether ADC possesses the organizational muscle to capitalize on growing voter discontent. “Mobilization speeches are one thing,” noted Lagos-based political analyst Adeola Williams. “Building viable structures to challenge entrenched parties requires more than rhetoric—it needs resources, grassroots networks, and a compelling alternative vision.”
What This Means for Lagos Politics
Lagos remains Nigeria’s most politically strategic state—its commercial hub status and massive voter population make it a prized battleground. Aregbesola’s decision to launch his campaign here suggests:
- ADC aims to make inroads in Nigeria’s economic nerve center
- Potential realignments among opposition forces
- Growing fragmentation within traditional political blocs
As the political temperature rises, all eyes will be on whether ADC’s mobilization gains traction or fizzles against APC’s well-oiled Lagos machinery. One thing is certain—Nigeria’s political landscape just got more interesting.
Full credit to the original publisher: Daily Nigerian