Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has formally accepted his appointment as the Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the new platform adopted by the National Opposition Coalition Group.
In his acceptance speech delivered on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Aregbesola laid out a sweeping vision for party reform, warning against opportunistic politics and calling for a return to values-based leadership.
“It is with deep humility, a profound sense of duty, and unwavering hope for our people, nation, race and party that I accept the appointment as The National Secretary of our great party,” Aregbesola stated, as he addressed party leaders, members, and citizens across the country.
He acknowledged the party’s leadership for their trust, but extended greater appreciation to the grassroots. “I thank every committed member of this party—those who still believe that politics can be a force for good… Those who believe in the supremacy of the party in a democracy and all products of democratic contests.”
In a fiery rebuke of contemporary Nigerian political culture, Aregbesola cautioned against viewing political parties merely as avenues for power grabs.
“A political party is not a platform for opportunism. It is not a mere vehicle to power for the few, nor a tool for personal ambition. A political party, in its truest form, is a living institution built on values, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve,” he declared.
Drawing inspiration from across Africa, Aregbesola cited South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) as a model. “The ANC is not perfect but it stands for something. It was forged in resistance, sharpened by vision, and led by men and women who believe in justice, dignity, equality, inclusivity of all interests and true freedom. It has character. It has soul.”
He lamented the current state of Nigerian political parties, saying: “Our political landscape is plagued by parties that lack ideological depth. They are empty shells merging and splitting, not over policy or principle, but over power and personality.”
Aregbesola vowed that under his stewardship, ADC would not fall into that category. “That is not the kind of party we must be. That is not the kind of party I will serve,” he affirmed.
He pledged to champion a reinvigorated party structure that prioritizes inclusivity, internal democracy, and national development. “We must become an institution where: (1) Internal democracy is not just preached but practiced. (2) Intra-party competition is transparent, fair, and just. (3) All party structures from the ward to the national level function effectively and efficiently.”
He further emphasized the need for inclusion: “(4) Young people, women, and the marginalized have a real voice, not symbolic inclusion. (5) All special and critical interests—security, educators, farmers, workers, women, youth, professionals, people with special needs—must be recognised and allowed to have autonomous structures within the party.”
The former minister of interior promised to borrow from global party management models.
“We will model international best practices in party organization, administration, and ethics. We will study what works from South Africa to Sweden, from Chile to Kenya, and adapt what fits our local reality.”
He outlined his development-focused vision for the party’s engagement with citizens. “We must be the party that talks about public education and actually builds schools. That speaks of security and supports real policies to keep our communities safe. That believes in jobs and works to create them. That stands for Nigeria not just during elections, but in everyday governance.”
While acknowledging the difficult road ahead, Aregbesola remained resolute. “This is not an easy task. It will take time. It will demand sacrifice. But it can be done.”
In closing, he appealed to party members and citizens alike for active involvement. “I ask for your support not just in words, but in action. Hold me accountable. Challenge me when I stray. And stand with me as we begin this journey to rebuild our party, restore its soul, and return politics to its rightful place—as a service to the people.”
