‘Our Doors Are Not Shut’ – ADC Sets Conditions As Makinde Defection Rumours Intensifies
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State has outlined conditions that must be met should Governor Seyi Makinde decide to join the party amid speculations of a possible political realignment.
The state chairman of the party, Yinka Olona, made the disclosure on Monday while addressing journalists at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Amuludun Field, Moniya, Ibadan.
Olona said the governor was free to join the ADC, provided he abides by the party’s constitution, rules and internal democratic processes.
“Let me put it this way: the doors of our party are open to anyone who is willing to join. If he is interested in coming, he is free to do so, as long as he abides by our rules. We are not shutting our doors against anybody,” he said.
However, the chairman stressed that no individual would be allowed to hijack or undermine the structure of the party.
“The ADC has internal mechanisms and strong internal democracy. Nobody can just come in and hijack the party. Everything must be done according to laid-down procedures,” Olona added.
He dismissed reports suggesting any formal engagement between the party leadership and the governor.
“As far as I’m concerned, we have not had any discussion. Maybe he has been speaking with some other individuals I wouldn’t know. But if he wants to come, he is free to come,” he said.
Olona described the ADC as a coalition platform driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the current political order.
“As you can see, the ADC is now a coalition party. What is driving this coalition is the suffering the masses are facing in the country,” he said.
“The aim is to rescue Nigerians from the untold hardship they are currently experiencing and to reposition the country to where it is supposed to be. It is not only about winning future elections but about restoring Nigeria’s lost glory.
“The next election will be Nigerians versus the old political order — both APC and PDP. Both parties have failed the people. The only credible alternative now is the African Democratic Congress.”
Also speaking, an ADC governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Niyi Aborishade, emphasised that the party offers equal opportunity to all aspirants.
“The difference is very clear. ADC is a truly democratic party. It provides a level playing field for everyone.
“No matter who you are — whether rich or poor, famous or unknown — you are given equal opportunity to present what you have to offer the people. It is not about money or power. The party does not impose candidates,” he said.
On the rumoured interest of a sitting PDP governor in the party, Aborishade maintained that any such move must comply with party rules.
“He has the right to do that if he wants. But ADC is not a party anyone can come and control or exploit the way things are done elsewhere. If he comes, he is welcome, but the rules must apply equally,” he added.
