In a bold move set to reshape the political landscape of Delta State, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its intention to register a staggering 2.3 million new members. This ambitious initiative is designed to position the party as a formidable challenger to the established dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A Strategic Unveiling in Asaba
The party's strategy was publicly revealed in Asaba over the weekend. The announcement was made by Prof. Festus Arunaye, a national member of the ADC's Membership Revalidation, Mobilisation and Registration Committee. He spoke during the official inauguration of the Delta State chapter of this crucial committee.
Arunaye explained that this large-scale registration drive is not merely about increasing numbers. He stated its core purpose is to redefine political participation in Delta State and finally deliver what he termed the "real dividends of democracy" to the people. This target of 2.3 million members highlights the ADC's growing confidence as it steps into the state's highly competitive political arena, where rival parties have historically enjoyed deeper structures, greater financial resources, and more extensive grassroots networks.
The "Party of the Masses" and Its Modest Fee
Central to the ADC's appeal, according to Arunaye, is its identity as a "party of the masses." He strongly emphasized that within the ADC, no single individual—regardless of personal wealth or influence—is permitted to dominate party affairs. This is presented as a clear contrast to the political culture of the established parties.
To become a member, interested individuals will be required to pay a token registration fee of ₦500. The party has planned a hybrid registration process, utilizing both electronic platforms and physical, in-person methods to ensure wide reach across the state. Arunaye urged all party coordinators and members to treat the exercise with the utmost seriousness, as its success will directly shape the ADC's electoral fortunes and future in Delta State.
Unity and Grassroots Mobilization
Addressing potential concerns, Prof. Arunaye firmly dismissed any speculation about internal divisions or factions within the Delta State chapter of the ADC. He declared the party to be united and focused on its common goal.
In a practical step to facilitate the drive, registration materials were formally presented to coordinators from all local government areas during a stakeholders' meeting. The items, which included:
- ADC membership booklets
- Party flags
- Branded face caps
- Nigerian flags
were handed over by Mr. George Timinimi, a member of the party's transition committee. These materials are intended to empower grassroots mobilizers and ensure the registration campaign penetrates every community in the state.
This significant mobilization effort by the ADC signals the beginning of intense political realignments in Delta State as the nation looks ahead to future elections. The party is betting on its mass-oriented approach and affordable membership to carve out a substantial space in a political field long controlled by two major giants.
