A prominent leader of the African Democratic Congress in Oyo State has voiced strong optimism about the party's chances in the upcoming 2027 general elections, pointing to a significant defection and growing public discontent as key factors.
Aborisade's Confidence Rooted in ADC's Rising Profile
Chief Niyi Aborisade, a British-trained human rights lawyer and governorship aspirant, made his assertions while addressing journalists in Ibadan on 5 January 2026. He stated that the ADC is poised for a sweeping victory across Oyo State.
Aborisade directly linked the party's growing strength to the recent decision of former Presidential candidate Peter Obi to join the ADC. He described this move as a clear signal that the party is now the most credible and progressive political platform in Nigeria. "Peter Obi’s defection to the ADC is not accidental," Aborisade said. "It clearly shows that the party is becoming increasingly popular and attractive to genuine progressives across Nigeria."
Economic Hardship and PDP Decline Fuel ADC Growth
The ADC chieftain attributed the party's expanding acceptance to the prevailing economic difficulties in the country, which he believes are driving citizens to seek alternative leadership. He also took aim at the Peoples Democratic Party, describing it as a party in decline.
Aborisade, who recently left the PDP for the ADC himself, blamed the PDP's prolonged internal crisis for a mass movement of its members into the ADC, particularly within Oyo State. "The crisis within the PDP has weakened its structure," he stated. "Many of its members in Oyo State have realised that the party no longer offers a credible platform, and they are now joining the ADC."
Grassroots Mobilization for 2027
On the party's preparations for the crucial 2027 polls, Aborisade revealed that the ADC is actively building robust grassroots structures across all local government areas in Oyo State. He emphasized that the party is strategically positioning itself to take over political leadership in the state.
Meanwhile, in a related development, a rift has emerged within the Ogun State chapter of the Action Democratic Party. The disagreement stems from the choice of Segun Sowunmi, former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar's 2019 presidential campaign, as the party's preferred gubernatorial candidate for 2027.
This follows a visit by party leaders, led by Chairperson Yeye Olufunke Olanrewaju, to Sowunmi's Ibara residence to offer him the ticket—a move replicated by the Labour Party just weeks prior. However, a faction of the ADP executive has publicly distanced itself from the visit.
In a statement jointly signed by party leader Olanrewaju Shokunbi and Secretary Tajideen Durosinmi, the group reiterated its support for the party's 2023 governorship candidate, Shokunbi Kazeem. They insisted that the ADP is not a platform for political mergers or the exchange of favours.
