Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Interior and interim National Secretary of the newly formed African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called on party supporters to maintain civility and focus on fact-based arguments when engaging with political opponents.
Addressing supporters on Friday after returning to Lagos from Abuja where the ADC was formally launched Aregbesola emphasized the need for respectful discourse, particularly in interactions with backers of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a message shared on his social media platforms, Aregbesola expressed gratitude to ADC members who welcomed him at the airport and urged them to remain disciplined in advancing the party’s mission.
“I sincerely thank our supporters who came out to receive me on my arrival in Lagos,” he wrote. “The task before us is immense. We must not insult, fight, or attack anyone. When provoked, respond with facts.”
He encouraged supporters to frame their arguments around the current realities faced by Nigerians, posing the question.
“Are Nigerians better off today than they were before?” and drawing attention to issues such as inflation, economic hardship, and food insecurity.
“Let’s keep our debates focused on real issues. Communicate clearly and confidently why the ADC is a credible and necessary alternative for Nigeria’s future,” he added.
Aregbesola, once a key ally of President Bola Tinubu, previously served as Lagos State’s Commissioner for Works under Tinubu and later as Governor of Osun State.
Their alliance fractured in 2022 during the controversial reelection bid of Gboyega Oyetola, Tinubu’s nephew and Aregbesola’s successor. Aregbesola’s political faction, Omoluabi, opposed Oyetola and supported Ademola Adeleke of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) a pivotal factor in Oyetola’s defeat.
The ADC, formed through a coalition of political interests, is positioning itself as a viable alternative to the APC-led government ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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