Aregbesola Accepts ADC Interim National Secretary Role, Vows to Rebuild Party on Ideological Foundation

Published By Jerry Adesewo Last updated Jul 2, 2025

Aregbesola Accepts ADC Interim National Secretary Role, Vows to Rebuild Party on Ideological Foundation

Jerry Adesewo

Abuja, July 1, 2025 — Former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has formally accepted his appointment as the Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—the new political platform recently adopted by the National Opposition Coalition Group.

In his acceptance speech delivered Tuesday, Aregbesola expressed deep gratitude for the trust reposed in him by the party leadership and reiterated his unwavering commitment to restoring ideological clarity and institutional integrity to Nigerian politics.

“A political party is not a platform for opportunism or a mere vehicle to power for the few,” he declared. “It must be a living institution—built on values, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve.”

Aregbesola, widely known for his ideological bent and administrative rigour, lamented the current state of political parties in Nigeria, describing many as “empty shells” driven by personalities rather than principles. He cited the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa as a historical example of a party rooted in resistance, people-centered ideology, and democratic supremacy.

“In Nigeria today, we cannot say the same about many of our political parties,” he said. “They merge and split not over policy, but over power. That is not the kind of party we must be—and not the kind I will serve.”

As interim national secretary, Aregbesola pledged to steer the ADC towards becoming a robust, ideologically grounded party that champions internal democracy, inclusivity, transparency, and service to the people. His reform agenda includes:

Strengthening party structures from the ward to the national level
Ensuring fair and transparent intra-party elections
Creating autonomous party wings for youth, women, workers, educators, security personnel, and persons with disabilities
Promoting policies rooted in social justice, public education, employment creation, and community safety

He emphasized the importance of learning from global party models—from Sweden to South Africa, Chile to Kenya—and adapting best practices to Nigeria’s political context.

“We must be the party that talks about public education and builds schools; that speaks of security and drives real policy; that believes in jobs and creates them,” Aregbesola stated.

He concluded his remarks with a call to action, urging party members to not only support his vision but also hold him accountable.

“This is not an easy task. It will take time and sacrifice. But it can be done. I ask for your support—not just in words, but in action,” he appealed.

Aregbesola’s appointment signals a strategic repositioning of the ADC as a serious opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections, with growing indications that the party will serve as a rallying platform for opposition voices seeking credible alternatives to mainstream parties.

The National Opposition Coalition Group, comprising politicians, civil society actors, and youth leaders, had earlier endorsed the ADC as its new political vehicle, calling for a return to value-driven politics in Nigeria.

With Aregbesola at the administrative helm, the coming months are expected to be pivotal in determining whether the ADC can live up to that ambition.

Aregbesola Accepts ADC Interim National Secretary Role, Vows to Rebuild Party on Ideological Foundation