The African Democratic Party (ADC) in Oyo State has outlined conditions that must be met should Governor Seyi Makinde decide to join the party.
The state chairman, Yinka Olona, disclosed this on Monday while addressing journalists at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Amuludun Field, Moniya, Ibadan, amid speculation that the governor may be considering an alignment with the ADC coalition.
Olona said Governor Makinde is free to join the party, provided he is willing to comply with its rules, guidelines and internal democratic processes.
Commenting on the defection rumours, the ADC chairman noted that while the party’s doors remain open to all interested political actors, no individual would be allowed to take over or undermine its structure.
Olona said, “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, however, stressed that the party operates a strong internal democratic system that must be respected by new entrants, saying “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.”
He dismissed claims of any formal discussion between the party leadership in the state 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.
The chairman described ADC as a coalition platform formed in response to the hardship face
“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.
“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, said the party distinguishes itself through internal democracy and equal opportunity for 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.
Reacting to the rumoured interest of a sitting PDP governor in the party, Aborishade said such a move would be subject to 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.
On ADC’s chances in the next election cycle, the aspirant expressed optimism, saying, “Our chances are very bright. You can see the mood of the people, they want change, genuine change. ADC represents positive change, and that is our strength.”
