By Efe Onodjae 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on December 2 recorded a major political milestone in Edo State as the party unveiled its coalition partners in Benin City, a development analysts say signals a renewed bid to assert its strength ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The event, which drew an impressive crowd of party faithful and political influencers, was attended by top ADC stalwarts, including former APC National Chairman and prominent ADC leader in Edo, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and respected political figure Dr Isaiah Osifo.

A strong delegation from the party’s national leadership was also on the ground. Chief Whip Festus Igbinoba and the ADC National Legal Adviser, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, delivered messages of solidarity on behalf of the National Chairman, Sen. David Mark. The Vice National Chairman (South-South), Usani Uguru Usani, also sent goodwill messages reaffirming the national body’s commitment to deepening the party’s structures across the region.

Frontline ADC chieftain and former Edo governorship candidate, Mabel Oboh, led other zonal representatives including Bright Honda, the South-South Zonal Youth Leader, to the unveiling. Their presence, alongside a wide array of party executives, lent considerable weight to the event, which many described as one of the party’s most coordinated outings in recent years.

Speaking with journalists, Oboh expressed deep satisfaction with what she described as “the renewed momentum of the ADC in Edo State,” saying the turnout reflected the public’s growing confidence in the party’s direction.

“What we witnessed today is a clear demonstration of the people’s desire for meaningful change,” Oboh said. “The support is overwhelming, and it shows that the ADC is no longer a fringe player but a major force preparing to take over Edo State.”

She commended the organisational prowess of the ADC State Chairman, Hon. Kennedy Odion, the State Secretary, Charles Imuentiyan, and the planning committee led by Dr Nosa Ehima, with Jafaru Sumaina as secretary, describing the successful outing as proof of the team’s commitment to repositioning the party.

Political observers note that Oboh, who gained prominence during the 2020 governorship race, particularly after openly challenging Governor Godwin Obaseki to a public debate, has continued to play a defining role in strengthening the party’s visibility and grassroots appeal in the state.

The decision to host the unveiling in Benin City, party insiders say, was strategic, aimed at consolidating support among critical political blocs and energising the ADC base ahead of the 2025 elections.

Oboh maintained that the party has undergone a positive transformation, stressing that the coalition unveiling marked a new chapter in the ADC’s political journey.

“It’s clear that we are ready to take over the state,” she said confidently.

The unveiling has been described as a clear statement of intent as Edo residents continue to demand leadership that will address rising poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship.

With a rejuvenated leadership structure, expanded coalition network, and an increasingly mobilised supporter base, the ADC says it is fully prepared to present a viable alternative in the forthcoming polls.

Stakeholders believe the party’s latest move positions it strongly in the evolving political landscape as Edo braces for another decisive electoral contest.