The Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has pledged a transformative agenda for the party, vowing to build a political institution driven by values, inclusivity, and international best practices.
In his first public address following his appointment, Aregbesola emphasised that the ADC would not be a platform for opportunism or a vehicle for personal ambition. Instead, he said, it would become a living institution built on strong democratic ideals, ethical governance, and genuine commitment to national development.
“A political party, in its truest sense, must be guided by values, rooted in justice, and held accountable to the people it seeks to serve,” Aregbesola stated. He outlined his vision for a party that listens to its members, upholds the rule of law, practices internal democracy, and maintains a culture of transparency and accountability.
To achieve this, Aregbesola said the ADC would look beyond Nigeria’s borders to study and adopt best practices in party organisation and political ethics from countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Sweden, and Chile. These systems, he noted, would be carefully examined and adapted to fit Nigeria’s unique political and socio-cultural context.
He cited the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa as an example of a party that, despite its imperfections, has sustained a strong ideological foundation and maintained its relevance through principled leadership and people-oriented struggle. “The ANC stands for something meaningful. It was forged in resistance and shaped by vision, with leaders committed to justice, dignity, and true freedom,” Aregbesola said.
Aregbesola stressed that the ADC must become a party that functions beyond electoral cycles—engaging citizens every day, advocating for policies that address inequality, and being a platform where all voices are heard, especially those of young people, women, and other marginalised groups.
He called for the recognition and establishment of autonomous structures within the party to represent these special interest groups, ensuring they have real influence and not just token representation. “Inclusion must go beyond symbolic gestures. Every critical group must have a stake and a voice in shaping our direction,” he asserted.
Aregbesola concluded by urging members and supporters to hold him accountable, challenge him when necessary, and work collectively toward the renewal and revitalisation of the party. “Let us return politics to its rightful place—as a selfless service to the people,” he said.
His appointment marks a pivotal moment for the ADC, as it sets out to redefine its mission and position itself as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Observers are now watching to see how the party will translate this renewed vision into practical action.
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