Aregbesola: Nigerians, Not Governors, Will Decide 2027 Elections

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has emphasized that the Nigerian electorate, not political figures, will determine the outcome of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the launch of Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi’s memoir, “The Loyalist in Abuja”, Aregbesola also cautioned that defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may not necessarily guarantee electoral success. 

“Governors do not win elections, the people do,” he stated, urging the authorities to ensure transparent and credible polls that truly reflect the will of Nigerians.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who was the special guest of honour at the event, lauded Abdullahi’s book for exploring the concept of loyalty in politics. 

According to him, unlike military obedience, political loyalty is shaped by personal conscience, experience, and years of democratic engagement.

Drawing from his own experiences—including assassination attempts and periods in exile—Abubakar highlighted the importance of loyalty that promotes inclusion, accountability, transparency, and respect for diverse opinions. 

He called on leaders to listen to dissenting voices and on citizens to engage in policy debates guided by empathy and practical experience.

Abubakar also noted that the ADC provides a broad coalition capable of renewing Nigeria’s democratic landscape, presenting a viable alternative after years of governance challenges.

Senator David Mark, who chaired the occasion, described Abdullahi as a patriotic, selfless, and straightforward individual. He clarified that the “doctrine of necessity” referenced in the memoir was a Senate initiative and unrelated to any individuals from Kwara State.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, expressed gratitude to the author and reaffirmed strong South-East representation. 

He encouraged Nigerians to embrace writing as a tool for national development and pledged continued solidarity in advancing the country’s progress.