“Time to Swing Into Action!” – Aregbesola Rallies ADC in Osun, Unveils 2026 Guber Election Strategy
Former Interior Minister and ex-governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has called on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to intensify grassroots mobilisation as the party gears up for the November 2026 governorship election.
At a strategic meeting held Sunday in Ilesa, Aregbesola — now a national leader of the ADC — met with stakeholders and members of the Omoluabi Progressives, the political movement he founded after breaking ties with the All Progressives Congress (APC). He urged the gathering to seize the opportunity offered by the upcoming Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise scheduled to begin on August 18.
“The time has come to swing into action,” Aregbesola charged during his address to party faithful drawn from across Osun’s local government areas.
“The forthcoming Continuous Voter Registration exercise, scheduled to commence on August 18, is crucial to the task ahead,” he added, encouraging widespread mobilisation, especially among young people and disenfranchised groups.
“Everyone must actively participate, mobilise, and galvanise the people to register and be ready to vote.”
The gathering marks a critical moment in Aregbesola’s political resurgence. His defection from the APC followed a prolonged rift with his successor, Gboyega Oyetola, which played a role in the latter’s defeat during the 2022 election that saw Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinch victory.
With his movement now formally aligned with the ADC, Aregbesola is positioning the party as a viable alternative in Osun politics — and potentially beyond.
Political analysts view the 2026 Osun election as a litmus test for Aregbesola’s influence ahead of the 2027 general elections. A victory — or even a strong ADC performance — could elevate his status as a national political player in what’s anticipated to be a wide-open presidential contest.
Addressing the future direction of the party, Aregbesola stressed discipline, unity, and issue-driven campaigning.
“Rather than resort to name-calling or personal attacks, we must focus on policy- and issue-based debates that enrich political discourse and set the tone for our mission to return Osun to true progressive leadership,” he stated.
He also lauded local leaders for their unwavering support, “We are convinced and reassured of the support of our people to take us to the desired zenith. Nigeria must work in our lifetime.”
As the 2026 race approaches, Aregbesola appears determined to transform the ADC from a fringe player into a formidable force in Osun — and potentially position himself as a power broker ahead of 2027.
But political observers caution, “His next chapter may depend on whether he can deliver the state to a party still considered minor in national politics — or at least disrupt the current political order significantly.” Read More
