Political stakeholders from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State have publicly expressed their willingness to welcome Governor Seyi Makinde into their fold. This comes amidst persistent speculation about the governor's potential defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
ADC's Open Door with Firm Conditions
A prominent chieftain of the ADC, Mrs. Bolanle Sarumi, clarified the party's position. She stated that while the ADC is ready to receive Governor Makinde and other significant political figures, this must be on the party's own terms. The core conditions are an adherence to the ADC's ideology of fairness, inclusiveness, and strict respect for internal democratic processes.
Sarumi emphasised that the party, built on a strong ideological foundation, would not compromise its values simply to accommodate political heavyweights. "We are a party that respects the rule of law and welcomes everybody," she said. "However, it is not a platform for domination, imposition or political high-handedness."
No Room for Imposition, Say Party Officials
Echoing this sentiment, the Oyo State Chairman of the ADC, Mr. Yinka Olona, affirmed that the party is open to growth and new alliances. He, however, insisted that its democratic culture is non-negotiable for all members, irrespective of their status. Olona described the ADC as a platform promoting participatory politics and collective decision-making, not one where a single individual dictates terms.
Adding a note of caution, another party leader, Chief Niyi Aborisade, warned against sacrificing the ADC's ideals in the quest to attract influential politicians. "The ADC must not become like the APC and PDP that we criticise daily," Aborisade stated. He stressed that the party must avoid imposition, godfatherism, and dictatorship.
Aborisade also highlighted the need to protect loyal members who built the party from the grassroots. He argued that the impact of new, high-profile entrants should not undermine the efforts of longstanding members. For the ADC, any growth must be guided by the principles of fairness, respect, and equity.
PDP Dismisses Defection Speculation
In a swift reaction to the circulating rumours, the Oyo State PDP has firmly denied any plans by Governor Makinde to leave the party. The party's Publicity Secretary, Mr. Michael Ogunsina, categorically dismissed the reports. "It is a lie. There is nothing like that," Ogunsina declared, attempting to quell the speculation.
Despite the PDP's denial, the ADC leaders maintain their focus on building what they term a credible political alternative. They aim to anchor this alternative on a clear ideology, transparency, and unwavering democratic values as the political landscape evolves ahead of future elections.
