The interim national secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former governor of Osun State, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, on Sunday said Nigerians demand people-oriented leadership that will provide solution to the nation’s socioeconomic challenges.

He also urged members of the party not to be swayed by the alleged antics of misinformation of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and desist from responding to insults and attacks from any quarter.

Aregbesola made these remarks while addressing ADC members and teeming supporters, who came to welcome him to Osogbo, Osun State capital, as part of his moves to galvanise support for the coalition movement.

Assuring that ADC was ready to rescue Nigeria from the current occupiers that have retarded its progressive strides, he
noted that though obstacles are inevitable, they will not derail the party’s focused drive to offer Nigerians a credible, people-first alternative in the 2027 general elections.

Aregbesola stated, “Nigerians are not asking for miracles. They are asking for leadership that puts the people first — and delivers real, measurable results.
From every corner of the country, the people are asking: ‘Is this the future we were promised?’ And the painful truth is — things have gotten worse.”

While imploring the people to team up with ADC in order to rebuild the nation, he emphasized that the party’s mission provides a viable alternative with a leadership that listens, serves, and delivers.

“We are not here to trade insult. We are here to restore what has been lost — dignity, competence, and direction. Let them throw insults. We will offer answers. Let others fight. We will build.

“We are on a mission, and we will stay focused — building quietly, consistently, and with conviction. This party is for everyone. We welcome you — not as enemies of others, but as Nigerians determined to chart a better path forward. We know the game — distractions, smears, provocations. But we will not play it.

“We are stepping into a new chapter — one of responsibility, restoration, and meaningful results. The struggles of the past were not in vain. They’ve prepared us to lead with clarity and conviction. The best of what we have to offer is still ahead.”

“Power is not a prize to seize, but a duty to serve. Not a throne to occupy, but a burden to bear with honour. True leadership gives more than it takes. That is our covenant: power is responsibility, “he remarked.