Aregbesola Decries Hardship, Urges Nigerians to Reject APC in 2027

Former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has condemned the worsening economic hardship and insecurity in the country, calling on Nigerians to reject the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the commissioning of the new Kwara State secretariat of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ilorin on Saturday, Aregbesola described the current administration as “selfish and insensitive,” accusing it of failing to alleviate the suffering of ordinary citizens.

He lamented that the cost of living had skyrocketed beyond the reach of most Nigerians. “Before, ₦10,000 could start a small business confidently, but today even ₦200,000 is not enough. There is hunger everywhere, insecurity, and joblessness. Those in government today think only of themselves,” he said.

The former minister also criticised the federal government for neglecting key infrastructure in Kwara State, citing the poor conditions of the Ilorin–Ibadan, Ilorin–Lokoja, and Ilorin–Offa roads. According to him, authorities are wasting resources on less impactful projects while vital highways remain in deplorable condition.

Aregbesola urged ADC members to intensify efforts to spread the party’s message across communities. “Let’s keep talking about ADC in markets, offices, mosques, and churches so people will know about the party that truly wants to serve them,” he said.

Former Kwara State Governor, Alhaji AbdulFatah Ahmed, in his welcome remarks, expressed optimism that the new ADC office would usher in a new era of inclusive politics in the state. “This party will show how collective participation can strengthen democracy. We are here to build a political system that gives everyone a voice,” he said.

ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, described the event as a milestone in the party’s expansion. “ADC is growing across Nigeria. We are not yet where we want to be, but we are progressing because God is in control,” he stated.

In a goodwill message, Hon. Danladi from Offa Local Government hailed the courage of Aregbesola and other leaders for championing people-oriented politics. “Our roads are bad, there’s no water, and insecurity is worsening. It feels like there’s no governance. But ADC is a party that values everyone and silences no one,” he said.

The ceremony also featured the defection of Babatunde Muhammad, former Kwara State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with thousands of his supporters to the ADC. Party leaders said the mass defection would strengthen the ADC’s political base and establish it as a credible alternative in future election..