LAGOS — In a strong message that underscores a maturing political tone in Nigeria’s growing opposition space, former Interior Minister and Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has urged his party’s supporters to resist the temptation of insults and instead engage supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with facts, logic, and policy-based debates.
Speaking at a well-attended gathering in Lagos following his return from Abuja, Aregbesola emphasized the need for constructive political engagement, especially as the 2027 general elections draw nearer. The former Osun State governor called on ADC members and the broader coalition movement to avoid political mudslinging and instead channel their energy into exposing the failures of the APC administration through informed discussions and hard evidence.
“Don’t insult anyone. Challenge them with facts,” Aregbesola declared, urging supporters to ask direct questions about the state of the economy, rising food prices, and deepening poverty. “Are Nigerians better off today than they were eight years ago? Let the people answer.”
The Interim Secretary noted that the rising cost of living, skyrocketing inflation, and poor economic indices under the APC-led government have created fertile ground for issue-based opposition politics. He warned, however, that these issues must be tackled with civility and discipline to distinguish the ADC and its coalition allies as a credible alternative.
Aregbesola also acknowledged that Nigeria’s current political landscape is increasingly frustrating for citizens but insisted that abuse and hate speech would only distract from the core mission of national redemption. He assured the crowd that the ADC remains committed to offering Nigerians a pragmatic and people-focused platform that prioritizes competence, integrity, and accountability.
The meeting attracted grassroots mobilizers, youth leaders, and women stakeholders from across the southwest, many of whom echoed Aregbesola’s call for political maturity. His message is widely seen as part of a broader repositioning of the ADC as the nucleus of the opposition coalition expected to challenge the ruling party in 2027.
The ADC has been gaining momentum in recent months, buoyed by defections from the APC and rising discontent across the country. With Aregbesola now at the helm of affairs, political observers believe the party may be preparing to emerge as a formidable voice in the coming electoral cycle.
As Nigeria edges closer to 2027, Aregbesola’s appeal marks a notable shift in opposition strategy — one that prioritizes policy critique over personal vendettas. Whether it will resonate with a restless population remains to be seen, but for now, the ADC has set a tone that other parties may be forced to follow.