The National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Rauf Aregbesola, has dismissed speculations suggesting he may return to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Aregbesola made the clarification while addressing party faithful during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilesa, Osun State, on Sunday.
The former Osun State governor stated that he had no reason to rejoin the APC, insisting that the ruling party had abandoned the ideals upon which it was founded.
He also criticised the current administration at the federal level, alleging that the living conditions of Nigerians had worsened under the APC government.
According to him, the ADC remains the only credible alternative capable of addressing the nation’s challenges.
“I want to appreciate you all. Despite the attacks, oppression, and intimidation by those who think they can continue to intimidate us, you have remained resolute, firm, and solidly behind our cause. We cannot express how grateful we are to you,” Aregbesola said.
“Let me tell you, I am not planning a return to the APC. Such information is just a figment of their imagination. I have no reason to join the party again. The truth is that the current handlers have derailed from the vision and mission statement on which we built the party.
“Those in charge of our affairs at the national level have failed to uphold the basic principles of government, the welfare and security of the people. So, we do not have any reason to rejoin them. We are ADC, and despite their attacks, we continue to grow in leaps and bounds. Do not relax or waver; victory is ours by God’s grace.”
Aregbesola also endorsed the ADC governorship candidate in Osun State, Dr Najeem Salaam, describing him as a loyal and committed leader capable of returning the state to the path of development.
“Our candidate, Najeem Folasayo Salaam Iwaloye, is a man of the people. He is loyal, committed, and deeply desires to return our state to the pedestal of development at which we left it in 2018. We urge everyone to support us. We will not let you down,” he added.
Speaking at the meeting, Salaam urged party members to remain united and vigilant ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
He promised that his administration would focus on job creation, poverty reduction, affordable housing and addressing governance challenges facing the state.
Also speaking, the Osun ADC Chairman elect, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji, said the party remained united despite political pressures ahead of the election.
He expressed confidence that the ADC would emerge victorious at the poll.
“You are all aware we have a governorship election in about three months from now. It’s a must win for us. Let’s all work hard by mobilising to win. We have God behind us. We have the pedigree. We have done it before. God will make it happen again. Dr Najeem Salaam will be elected on August 15 by the grace of God,” he stated.
Adesiji further disclosed that the party would commence statewide campaigns within one week, covering all local government areas and the nine federal constituencies in Osun State, with mega rallies planned for Ile Ife and Osogbo.
He also commended Aregbesola for what he described as his political sagacity and leadership role within the party.
