The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress in Oyo State, Yinka Olona, on Monday said Governor Seyi Makinde is free to join the party if he is willing to abide by its rules and internal democratic processes.
He disclosed this while speaking with The PUNCH on the sidelines of a party stakeholders’ meeting held at the Amuludun FM field, Moniya, in Akinyele Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking on reported defection rumours, the ADC chairman said the party’s doors remain open to all interested political actors but warned that no individual could hijack its structure.
Olona said, “Let me put it this way: the doors of our party are open to anyone who is willing to join. If he is interested in coming, he is free to do so, as long as he abides by our rules. We are not shutting our doors against anybody,” Olona said.
He stressed that the party operates a strong internal democratic system that must be respected by new entrants.
“The ADC has internal mechanisms and strong internal democracy. Nobody can just come in and hijack the party. Everything must be done according to laid-down procedures,” he added.
Olona dismissed claims of any formal discussion between the party leadership in the state and the governor.
“As far as I’m concerned, we have not had any discussion. Maybe he has been speaking with some other individuals; I wouldn’t know. But if he wants to come, he is free to come,” he said.
The chairman described the ADC as a coalition platform formed in response to the hardship faced by Nigerians, noting that prominent national political figures had aligned with the movement.
“As you can see, the ADC is now a coalition party. What is driving this coalition is the suffering the masses are facing in the country.
“The aim is to rescue Nigerians from the untold hardship they are currently experiencing and to reposition the country to where it is supposed to be. It is not only about winning future elections but about restoring Nigeria’s lost glory,” he said.
“The next election will be Nigerians versus the old political order both APC and PDP. Both parties have failed the people. The only credible alternative now is the ADC,” he added.
Also speaking, an ADC governorship aspirant in the state, Niyi Aborishade, said the party distinguishes itself through internal democracy and equal opportunity for aspirants.
“The difference between our party (ADC) and others is very clear. ADC is a truly democratic party. It provides a level playing field for everyone.
“No matter who you are whether rich or poor, famous or unknown, you are given equal opportunity to present what you have to offer the people. It is not about money or power. The party does not impose candidates,” he said.
