Ahead of the August 16 by-elections in Edo State, key political heavyweights—including two former governors, John Odigie-Oyegun and Senator Oserhiemen Osunbor—have pledged their support to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling the party’s ambition to secure victory at the polls and make a strong showing in the 2027 presidential race.
The endorsement was announced during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held at Oyegun’s residence in Benin City, according to Naija News.Also in attendance were notable figures such as former Senate Chief Whip Rowland Owie, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, and Hon. Sergius Ogun, a former federal lawmaker.During the meeting, Rowland Owie revealed that the League of Democrats, a political bloc he leads, has fully aligned with the ADC.
“For the past three months, we’ve met every Thursday, and today, I can confirm that all members of the League of Democrats have joined the ADC,” Owie said.He emphasized the ADC’s readiness to take on leadership at the national level, urging Nigerians to join the growing movement.
“ADC will lead Nigeria. We are prepared, and I call on everyone to come on board,” he declared.In his remarks to the press, Odigie-Oyegun explained that the meeting served to update party leaders on recent developments and to formally welcome new political groups defecting to the ADC.He also announced the creation of a mobilisation committee tasked with expanding membership across Edo and beyond.
“We are putting systems in place to ensure a robust and verifiable membership drive throughout the country,” Oyegun stated.
Additionally, he mentioned plans for another committee that would work hand-in-hand with the current ADC state executive to coordinate activities without disrupting existing party structures.
“We are fresh blood. We respect those who have served the party, but a transformation is coming—we will soon witness a remarkable shift,” he added.
In his own address, Senator Osunbor described the meeting as a “clarion call” to all Nigerians seeking reform, transparency, and better governance.
“The ADC is home to individuals of integrity who are committed to reshaping Nigeria’s governance landscape,” Osunbor asserted.
