The South West leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is “not unbeatable” ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the party is prepared to provide what it described as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Speaking during a maiden press conference of the ADC South West Zone held at Ibadan Business School, Bodija, Ibadan, the National Vice Chairman of the party in the zone, Hon. Akinbowale Omole, said the ADC was determined to “rescue Nigeria” from the current socio-economic challenges facing the country under the Tinubu administration.
Omole disclosed that the new South West leadership of the party was formally inaugurated in Ibadan in February 2026 with the approval of the party’s National Caucus and National Working Committee.
According to him, the inauguration, conducted by the party’s National Secretary and former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, marked the beginning of a new direction for the party in the region.
He said the ADC had continued to witness growing acceptance across the South West as Nigerians search for an alternative platform ahead of the next election cycle.
“We begin by expressing profound appreciation to the people of the South West for their massive acceptance of the ADC as the credible and best alternative to the failed APC administration,” Omole said.
The ADC chieftain explained that the party had already commenced programmes aimed at strengthening its structure across the country, including membership revalidation, grassroots mobilisation, engagement with communities, and policy development.
According to him, the party recently concluded polling unit, ward, local government and state congresses nationwide, producing what he described as fresh and credible leadership at different levels.
He added that the ADC also held a successful national convention in Abuja where the leadership of former Senate President David Mark and Aregbesola, alongside other members of the National Executive Committee, was affirmed.
Omole, however, stated that the South West should not support President Tinubu merely because he is from the region, stressing that leadership should be assessed based on performance and impact on citizens’ welfare.
“It must be stated clearly that the South West zone is unique. While some may expect the sentiment of producing the sitting President to influence political choices, the ADC firmly believes that support for any President must not be based on zonal affiliation alone, but on tangible performance, integrity, and visible socio-economic development,” he said.
The ADC vice chairman further accused President Tinubu of failing to uphold what he described as the Omoluabi values traditionally associated with the Yoruba people, including integrity, accountability and principled leadership.
According to him, the current administration does not reflect the progressive ideals of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Omole outlined several promises the party intends to pursue if voted into power, including tackling insecurity, reducing economic hardship, creating jobs for youths, restoring Nigeria’s international image, and implementing what he described as targeted subsidies to protect vulnerable citizens.
He also pledged that the ADC would bridge the widening gap between the rich and the poor, restore confidence in governance, and confront terrorism and criminality decisively.
The party called on Nigerians, especially residents of the South West, to join the ADC and participate actively in grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.
“In 2027, it will not be business as usual. We ask every Nigerian: Is your life better today than it was three years ago?” Omole asked.
He maintained that the ADC remained confident of defeating President Tinubu in the next presidential election with the support of Nigerians.
Among the newly elected state chairmen introduced at the event were: Jimoh Afees Adelowo – Oyo State, Azeez Issa Adesiji – Osun State, George Ashiru – Lagos State, Emmanuel Famojuro – Ogun State, Bamidele Ekunola – Ekiti State and Tola Alabere – Ondo State.
Other top officials present included: Tunji Shalle, Bode Ayorinde, Fabiyi Oladimeji, Kafilat Olayiwola, Bashir Aremu Lawal, Olufemi Adeleye, Lydia Olafunmiloye, Elizabeth Olusi, Yidiat Oseni and Motunrayo Odumosu.
