The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Yinka Olona, has said Governor Seyi Makinde is free to join the party provided he is ready to play by its rules and respect its internal democratic processes.
Olona made this known on Monday while speaking with The PUNCH during a stakeholders’ meeting of the party held at the Amuludun FM field in Moniya, Akinyele Local Government Area of the state.
Reacting to rumours that the governor might be considering a defection, the ADC chairman said the party’s doors are open to all political actors, but made it clear that no individual would be allowed to take over or dominate the party’s structure.
“Let me put it clearly: our doors are open to anyone who is willing to join. If he is interested, he is free to come, as long as he abides by our rules. We are not shutting our doors against anybody,” Olona said.
He stressed that ADC runs a firm internal democratic system that every new member must respect.
“The ADC has strong internal mechanisms and democracy. Nobody can just walk in and hijack the party. Everything must follow laid-down procedures,” he added.
Olona also dismissed claims that there had been any official discussion between the party leadership in Oyo State and Governor Makinde.
“As far as I’m concerned, there has been no discussion. Maybe he has been talking to some individuals; I wouldn’t know. But if he wants to come, he is free to do so,” he said.
Describing the ADC as a growing coalition movement, the chairman said the party was formed in response to the increasing hardship faced by Nigerians and has attracted notable political figures across the country.
“What is driving this coalition is the suffering of the masses. The goal is to rescue Nigerians from the hardship they are currently experiencing and reposition the country where it should be,” he explained.
According to him, the ADC is positioning itself as an alternative to the dominant political parties ahead of the next general elections.
“The next election will be Nigerians versus the old political order both APC and PDP. They have failed the people. The only credible alternative now is the ADC,” Olona added.
Also speaking at the event, Niyi Aborishade, an ADC governorship aspirant in Oyo State, said the party stands out because of its commitment to fairness and internal democracy.
“ADC is a truly democratic party. It offers a level playing field for everyone either rich or poor, popular or unknown. Everyone has an equal opportunity to present what they have to offer the people,” he said.
Aborishade added that the party does not impose candidates and places competence above money or political influence.
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