Aregbesola Dumps APC, Joins Coalition Party ADC, Becomes National Secretary

Aregbesola

Abuja, Nigeria | July 2, 2025 — In a major political shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he has now been appointed National Secretary of the party.

The announcement, made public on Tuesday, confirms weeks of speculation about Aregbesola’s next political move following growing discontent with the APC’s internal leadership and direction.

A Strategic Move Ahead of 2027

Aregbesola’s defection is seen as a significant realignment in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, especially as opposition forces prepare for a united challenge against the ruling party. His decision to join ADC — a party currently spearheading coalition talks with other opposition groups — positions him at the heart of what many analysts describe as a “third force” movement to unseat President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In his acceptance speech after assuming his new role, Aregbesola stated:

"This is not just a defection. It is a decision born out of a patriotic call to rescue our nation from stagnation, divisiveness, and economic decay. The ADC represents a fresh path — one where progress is possible without compromising integrity."

Fallout with APC Leadership

Aregbesola, a founding member of the APC and long-time ally of President Tinubu, had in recent years become increasingly distant from the party’s inner circle. Tensions reportedly peaked during the 2022 Osun State gubernatorial race, where Aregbesola’s faction clashed with the Tinubu-backed camp.

His departure from the APC follows a growing trend of disillusionment among senior party members who feel marginalized or silenced by the party's leadership structure.

ADC Welcomes High-Profile Reinforcement

The ADC, which has been undergoing a rebranding process, described Aregbesola’s arrival as a “major boost” to its national visibility and credibility.

Party Chairman Ralph Nwosu praised the former minister's “unquestionable commitment to the masses,” stating:

“With Comrade Aregbesola as National Secretary, we are not only strengthening our internal machinery, but also signaling to Nigerians that the ADC is ready to provide credible leadership and policy direction.”

Implications for the 2027 Elections

Political observers believe Aregbesola’s move could influence a wave of defections, particularly in the South-West, where he maintains a strong grassroots network. His role as National Secretary puts him at the forefront of building a nationwide coalition ahead of the next elections.

There are also reports that the ADC is in advanced talks with other political groups — including key figures from the PDP, LP, SDP, and youth-led civic movements — to form a broad-based alliance ahead of the 2027 polls.

Conclusion

As Nigeria inches closer to another critical election cycle, Aregbesola’s defection marks another crack in the APC’s internal unity and signals the rising momentum of opposition coalitions seeking to reshape the political order.

Reporting by News House
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