In a bold move, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is setting its sights on transforming its organisational structure by incorporating international best practices, according to Rauf Aregbesola, the party’s newly appointed Interim National Secretary.
Aregbesola, speaking at the recent National Opposition Coalition Group meeting at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, revealed plans to study and adapt successful political party models from countries including South Africa, Sweden, Chile, and Kenya. His appointment as the Interim National Secretary of ADC was also officially endorsed at the meeting, marking a significant shift in the party’s direction.
A Vision for Internal Democracy and Inclusivity
In his acceptance speech, Aregbesola emphasised that the ADC would foster internal democracy where competition within the party would be “transparent, fair, and just.” The former Interior Minister outlined the party’s commitment to ensuring that all party structures— from the ward to the national level— function efficiently and effectively.
“We must become an institution where: Internal democracy is not just preached but practiced. Intra-party competition is transparent, fair, and just,” he said. “Young people, women, and the marginalized have a real voice, not symbolic inclusion. All special and critical interests, such as security, educators, farmers, workers, women, youth, professionals, and people with special needs, must be recognised and allowed to have autonomous structures within the party.”
Focusing on Discipline, Service, and Clarity of Purpose
Aregbesola, reflecting on the need for greater discipline and service within political parties, reiterated that the ADC’s core values would align with international standards of party organisation. He pledged to study the practices of well-established political structures from countries with robust democratic systems.
“We will model international best practices in party organization, administration, and ethics. We will study what works from South Africa to Sweden, from Chile to Kenya, and adapt what fits our local reality. Discipline, order, clarity of purpose, and service to the people must define us,” Aregbesola concluded.
Political Landscape Shifts as ADC Grows
The ADC’s adoption by the National Opposition Coalition Group signals a growing influence in Nigeria’s political landscape as it prepares to challenge the dominance of the ruling party in upcoming elections. Aregbesola’s vision for a more inclusive and transparent party aligns with the aspirations of many Nigerians who seek alternatives to the status quo.
As the ADC moves forward under Aregbesola’s leadership, it is expected to set new standards for political participation and governance, with a particular focus on internal democracy, inclusion, and effective representation across all levels of society.
