..Targets Grassroots Expansion Ahead of 2027

By Adeola Badru

Ibadan, Nigeria — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a major membership revalidation, mobilisation, and registration exercise aimed at strengthening its grassroots structures nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The programme was formally unveiled on Monday at the Press Centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Iyaganku, Ibadan, by the Oyo State chapter of the party. Leaders described the initiative as a strategic step to expand the party’s base and deepen citizen participation in democratic governance.

Chairman of the ADC Membership Revalidation, Mobilisation, and Registration Committee in Oyo State, Bisi Ilaka, said the exercise marks a significant milestone in the party’s efforts to reposition itself nationally through a stronger grassroots structure.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of our great party as we take deliberate steps to strengthen our membership base, deepen grassroots participation, and ensure that every citizen of Oyo State has the opportunity to be part of the ADC movement for positive change,” Ilaka said.

The exercise will cover all political structures in the state, which has 351 wards across 33 local government areas and 6,389 polling units. Ilaka emphasised that the revalidation and registration programme is designed to reach every community in the state, ensuring inclusive and robust party structures.

“Membership in the ADC goes beyond holding a card; it signifies a commitment to our shared vision of progress, accountability, and participatory governance. Through this exercise, we aim to reconnect with existing members, welcome new supporters, and empower citizens to actively contribute to shaping the future of Oyo State,” he added.

Members were urged to return to their wards and local governments to participate, while citizens are also encouraged to use the ongoing digital registration platform, which concludes this Sunday.

Ilaka commended the national leadership of the party, including National Chairman Senator David Mark and National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, for their strategic direction in expanding the party’s influence.

The committee responsible for the exercise comprises 11 members representing Oyo South, Oyo Central, and Oyo North senatorial districts, with additional coordinators to strengthen grassroots registration.

Three members will be assigned in each local government area and ward to ensure thorough coverage.

“This structure guarantees that no eligible citizen is left out and that our party’s membership network remains strong and inclusive,” Ilaka said.

He appealed to residents to support the ADC, stressing that their engagement will strengthen the party’s capacity to influence governance and development.

“This unveiling is not merely symbolic; it is a call to action. By working collaboratively across all wards and polling units, we can create a vibrant network of informed and committed members, positioning the ADC strongly for the 2027 elections,” Ilaka said.

The exercise aims to deepen grassroots political engagement and build a strong foundation for future electoral success.