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After the formal introduction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja, former Interior Minister and interim national secretary Rauf Aregbesola returned to Lagos on Friday with an important message for the party's supporters.
He advised ADC members to refrain from insulting or attacking supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the newly established coalition aims to unseat the Tinubu administration, where he previously served as commissioner for works and infrastructure in Lagos State.
In a statement shared on his social media on Friday, Aregbesola expressed gratitude to those who welcomed him at the Lagos airport and urged them to avoid conflict and hostility, emphasizing the significant challenges ahead.
He suggested that when APC supporters verbally attack them, ADC members should respond with factual information regarding the country's conditions.
The statement included, “I sincerely appreciate our supporters and ADC members for coming out to welcome me in Lagos. The challenges we face are substantial, and I reminded everyone that there’s no need to engage in fights or insults.”
He continued, “When others resort to insults or name-calling, we must rise above it. Instead, we should pose one simple question: Are Nigerians better off today than before? Challenge them with facts regarding food inflation, the economy, rising living costs, and the growing poverty affecting millions. Let our discussions focus on critical issues.
Clearly and confidently articulate our stance. Explain why our new political home, the ADC, represents a credible and necessary alternative for Nigeria's advancement and long-term viability.”
The former Governor of Osun State had once been a close ally of President Tinubu, with their political partnership beginning in 1999 during Tinubu’s governorship in Lagos.
However, their relationship soured in 2022 when Tinubu’s nephew, Gboyega Oyetola, who took over from Aregbesola, was seeking re-election in Osun State under the APC banner.
Aregbesola's faction, ‘Omoluabi’ chose not to support Oyetola, leading to a conflict that caused them to back Ademola Adeleke from the Peoples Democratic Party. As a result, Oyetola lost his bid for reelection to Adeleke.
