Aregbesola Pledges Party Rebirth as He Assumes Role of ADC Interim National Secretary

Former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has formally accepted his appointment as the Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the newly adopted platform of the National Opposition Coalition Group.

In an impassioned acceptance speech, Aregbesola called for a fundamental rebirth of party politics in Nigeria, rooted in ideology, people-centered service, and democratic values.

“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,” he declared.

Expressing gratitude to party leaders and grassroots members alike, Aregbesola emphasized the need for political parties to transcend mere electoral machines.

“I thank every committed member of this party—those who still believe that politics can be a force for good… who believe in the supremacy of the party in a democracy,” he stated.

In a stirring critique of Nigeria’s political system, Aregbesola lamented the ideological emptiness of existing parties, describing them as “empty shells—merging and splitting, not over policy or principle, but over power and personality.”

He contrasted this with the enduring legacy of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), which he praised as “a 113-year behemoth of party organization… forged in resistance, sharpened by vision, and led by men and women who believe in justice, dignity, equality, inclusivity, and true freedom.”

“Sadly, in Nigeria today, we cannot say the same about many of our political parties,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to a values-driven political future, Aregbesola vowed to reposition the ADC into a truly democratic institution. “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 said.

As National Secretary, he pledged to entrench internal democracy, ensure fair intra-party competition, strengthen party structures across all levels, and promote genuine inclusion of youth, women, and marginalized groups—while also empowering special interest constituencies such as educators, farmers, workers, and persons with disabilities.

He further revealed plans to model the party after successful international systems, stating: “We will model international best practices in party organization, administration, and ethics… from South Africa to Sweden, from Chile to Kenya.”

Aregbesola stressed that rebuilding the ADC would be “no easy task,” requiring sacrifice and sustained effort. “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,” he urged.

He concluded with a rallying call:“Long live our party. Long live our democracy. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”