Omoluabi Progressive Movement Condemns Rauf Aregbesola’s Anti-Democratic Posture

The Omoluabi Progressive Movement, a social-political cultural tendency, is appalled by the actions of Rauf Aregbesola, the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Governor of Osun State. Aregbesola, who has long positioned himself as a champion of democratic values and good governance, has now descended into the depths of hypocrisy. His recent actions in Osun State, particularly within the Osun Omoluabi Progressive (a political group within the ADC chapter in the state), have been a stark betrayal of the democratic principles he claims to uphold.

Aregbesola’s tendency within the ADC Osun state chapter , the Osun Omoluabi Progressive organized a shadow election to select its flag bearer for the 2026 Osun Governorship election. However, this process has been marred by Aregbesola’s blatant disregard for democratic norms. He has used his influence to deny aspirants access to the party’s declaration of intention forms ditto for the nomination form, effectively shutting down the space for legitimate competition. Unfortunately ,the illegitimate outcome is now the subject of this press statement. Interestingly, this culminated in the leadership of Omoluabi Progressives Osun equating the outcome of their group shadow election as the ADC Osun chapter primary , therefore declaring a candidate, likened to a “mole in the garb of Wike”, as the party’s candidate for the 2026 Osun state governorship election.

Aregbesola’s actions demonstrate a shocking lack of regard for democratic principles, especially considering his past record of imposing candidates. His actions in 2022, which facilitated Gboyega Oyetola’s emergence as the APC candidate, were a clear indication of his willingness to disregard the will of party members. Now, he has repeated the same tactic, betraying Alhaji Adeoti, a loyal member of his group, for the second time.

The Omoluabi Progressive Movement condemns Aregbesola’s actions as a gross abuse of power and a betrayal of the trust reposed in him as a leader. We are appalled that there is a dearth of politicians and leaders with the passion and integrity of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Aregbesola’s actions, and those of others like him, are contributing to Nigeria’s democratic development problems. We question the existence of alternative parties and personalities that can counter Tinubu’s tyranny if their own type of treachery and debauchery equals and surpasses his.

We call on the ADC to address this assault on its credentials as a hope for Nigerian democracy. The unfolding events in Osun within the ADC Omoluabi Progressives Osun state, if not well handled, may have a ripple effect across Yorubaland and negatively impact the party’s chances in future elections.

The OPM rejects this kind of tyranny and demands accountability from our leaders. Aregbesola’s actions are a stark reminder that some politicians prioritize power over principles. We urge all stakeholders within the ADC to stand up for democracy and ensure that the space for legitimate competition is protected.

E-Signed
Adeola Ifanniyi Fatiregun
National Director of Media and Strategy
Omoluabi Progressive Movement