The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Edo State chapter, on Monday inaugurated a high-powered state leadership team, marking a significant step in consolidating its presence in the South-South zone and positioning itself as a formidable opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event, held in Benin City, brought together top party chieftains, including former Edo State Governor and first national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, who serves as the ADC’s Edo National Leader.
A “Rescue Mission” for Nigeria
In his address, Chief Oyegun framed the ADC’s move as a direct response to national hardship. “Nigeria has degenerated to hunger and deprivation, hence the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has stepped in on a rescue mission,” he declared.
He described the inauguration as a clear signal of the party’s readiness to provide Nigerians with a credible political alternative, stating, “we are proving to Nigerians and the political elite that ADC is prepared to take responsibility and rescue Nigerians from abject poverty and unrealistic policies.”
Oyegun emphasized that democracy thrives only with viable alternatives. “For democracy to exist, there must be a credible alternative… We are here to create that alternative for the people of Edo State,” he said.
Building a “Formidable Structure” for 2027
The former governor confirmed that the coalition leadership team was constituted to enrich the existing state structure and build a “formidable” platform to ensure the ADC takes power in 2027 and beyond.
He charged the new team, which includes prominent figures like former Governor Oserheimen Osunbor, former Senate Chief Whip Roland Owie, National Chief Whip Festus Igbinoba, and South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary Mabel Oboh, to strictly adhere to the party’s constitution and build harmony with the existing state executive led by Chairman Kennedy Odion.
A Party of “Transparent” Processes
Other leaders echoed the theme of change and integrity. Festus Igbinoba commended the commitment of Edo leaders and emphasized that the ADC operates “transparent and accountable internal processes, which distinguish the party from others in the political space.”
Senator Yisa Braimoh described the ADC as “the only credible opposition party in Nigeria,” expressing confidence that by 2027, it would prove itself capable of restoring the country’s competitive standing.
Mabel Oboh, addressing journalists, stated the mission goes beyond politics. “Our objective is to give ordinary Nigerians a genuine platform to participate meaningfully in governance… ADC is the hope of ordinary Nigerians. Our processes are open, transparent, and designed to include every stakeholder,” she said.
A Historic Milestone for Edo Politics
In his vote of thanks, State Chairman Kennedy Odion described the inauguration as a “historic milestone,” noting that Edo State had suffered from a lack of people-centered policies for decades. He welcomed the coalition members, stating their integration would create a stronger political force in the state.
The inauguration signals the ADC’s ambitious plan to capitalize on Nigeria’s political discontent and establish itself as a major third force, particularly in the strategically important South-South region, as the country looks toward the next election cycle.
Inaugurated Leadership Team Includes:
· H.E. Chief John Odigie Oyegun (Edo National Leader)
· H.E. Senator Oserheimen Osunbor
· Senator Yisa Braimoh
· Senator Roland Owie
· Festus Igbinoba (National Chief Whip)
· Mabel Oboh (South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary)
· Hon. Kennedy Odion (State Chairman)
· Hon. Festus Osaigbovo
· Dr. Mrs. Elizabeth Edomwandagbon
· Dr. Isaiah Osifo
· Mrs. Yemi Jatto
