The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially inaugurated former Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Alhaji Rahman Owokoniran, as the party’s new South-West Zonal Chairman.
The development marks a significant leadership move for the opposition party as it intensifies efforts to strengthen its structure ahead of future political contests.
ADC Leadership Formalises South-West Structure
The inauguration ceremony also featured the official presentation of members of the zonal executive committee, solidifying the party’s operational leadership across the South-West region.
Party officials confirmed that the exercise received the approval and backing of the ADC national leadership.
The event was conducted under the supervision of top party figures, including former Senate President and ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark.
Party Rejects Reports Of Internal Division
Following the inauguration, ADC chieftain Coker Onita strongly dismissed reports suggesting that the South-West leadership arrangement had been rejected within the party.
According to him, the claims being circulated were false and deliberately designed to confuse party supporters and members of the public.
Gossip News Now reports that the party insisted the appointment of Rahman Owokoniran remains valid and fully recognised by the ADC national leadership.
Owokoniran Receives Full Backing From National Leadership
ADC officials stated that the swearing-in was carried out with the authority of the party’s national leadership structure.
The party also clarified that the inauguration was supervised by Dr. Bamidele Ajadi, described as the highest-ranking national officer of the ADC in the South-West region.
According to party insiders, the leadership change forms part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening the ADC’s political relevance across the region.
APC Accused Of Sponsoring Misinformation
During media interactions after the ceremony, Coker Onita accused supporters and agents linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to destabilise the ADC through misinformation campaigns.
He claimed that the growing popularity of the ADC in the South-West may have triggered political anxiety among rival parties.
The ADC chieftain further alleged that some reports circulating online were part of coordinated efforts to weaken public confidence in the party.
ADC Criticises Anonymous Group
The party also reacted to statements reportedly issued by a group identifying itself as the “ADC Lagos State Stakeholders Forum.”
ADC officials questioned the legitimacy of the group and described it as an unknown entity attempting to create unnecessary division within the party.
Party leaders argued that genuine concerns within a democratic structure should come from clearly identified members rather than anonymous critics.
ADC Promises Stronger Opposition Politics
As political alignments continue shifting across Nigeria, the ADC reaffirmed its commitment to presenting itself as a credible alternative platform for Nigerians.
Party officials insisted that the South-West chapter remains united despite rumours of internal disagreements.
They also pledged to resist attempts aimed at destabilising the party’s organisational structure through propaganda or infiltration.
Political Activities Intensify Ahead Of 2027
The emergence of Rahman Owokoniran as ADC South-West chairman comes at a time when opposition parties are gradually repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers believe leadership restructuring and coalition building may become more frequent as parties seek stronger influence across different regions of the country.
The latest development also signals increasing political activity within opposition circles in the South-West.
Commentary And Analysis
The inauguration of Rahman Owokoniran highlights the growing battle for political relevance among opposition parties ahead of Nigeria’s next election cycle.
As major political parties intensify grassroots mobilisation, internal stability and leadership legitimacy may become critical factors in determining public confidence.
The situation also reflects how misinformation claims and accusations of political interference are becoming common features of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
