Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has warned that political defections ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections may not translate into electoral victory, insisting that voters remain the ultimate arbiters of power.
He spoke at the public presentation of The Loyalist in Abuja, a memoir written by the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.
Mr Aregbesola, a former governor of Osun State, said Nigerians—not governors or political elites—would decide the next elections, urging electoral authorities to deliver a process that is transparent and credible.
According to him, only free and fair elections would truly reflect the collective will of the population.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who attended the event as special guest of honour, described the book as a thoughtful exploration of loyalty in democratic politics.
He said political loyalty is shaped by conscience and experience rather than blind obedience, adding that the memoir invites reflection on the balance between allegiance to institutions and moral responsibility.
Mr Abubakar disclosed that his own political journey included exile and assassination attempts, which he attributed to principled loyalty.
He argued that authentic loyalty should broaden inclusion, demand openness in governance and respect the dignity of citizens, calling on leaders to tolerate and learn from opposing views.
He also said books play a vital role in shaping public values, noting that Abdullahi’s work brings empathy and lived experience into political debate.
Chairman of the occasion, former Senate President David Mark, said Nigeria’s challenges could only be addressed through collective responsibility. He praised the author’s integrity and service, despite past disagreements.
Mr Mark clarified that the doctrine of necessity mentioned in the memoir originated solely from the Senate and was not connected to any individual or state.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, thanked the author and pledged continued engagement from the South-East. He encouraged Nigerians to write more and reaffirmed his support for national progress.
