The Ogun State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Otunba Olufemi Soluade, has issued a stern warning to “desperate political opportunists and self-serving actors” attempting to destabilise the party.
The warning follows the recent recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission of Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s new National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
In an official update on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, INEC listed Mark and Aregbesola alongside other officers, bringing a measure of clarity after weeks of internal wrangling within the party.
Soluade, in a press statement made available to PUNCH Online on Friday, insisted that the recognition settles all questions of legitimacy.
He cautioned that any contrary claims were “misleading and harmful to the party’s progress at both national and state levels.”
He also warned against campaigns of misinformation, stressing that the party’s constitution provides clear avenues for grievances to be addressed.
“No member should resort to cheap propaganda or falsehood that could weaken our unity,” he said, noting that disorganisation only benefits rival political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Ogun ADC chairman highlighted the potential for national disputes to cause fragmentation at the state level, urging members to align with the new leadership and to prioritise collective goals over personal ambitions.
While acknowledging ongoing legal challenges, Soluade maintained that INEC’s decision remains binding unless overturned by a higher judicial ruling.
He appealed for discipline and respect for due process within the party.
The statement also addressed a recent court order dismissing reports that “Senator Mark and Ogbeni Aregbesola were restrained from functioning as leaders.”
According to the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullah, the Federal High Court in Abuja, on September 4, 2025, refused an ex-parte application and instead directed that the defendants be notified to appear, adjourning the matter to September 15, 2025.
Soluade reacted to this clarification by stating, “The Federal High Court never granted any injunction against Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. Those sponsoring these lies are simply frustrated individuals seeking relevance.”
He further cautioned detractors to “desist from misinforming the public” and warned the media to be vigilant in verifying reports.
“Fake news is the last resort of desperate mischief makers. Nigerians deserve truth, not deception,” he stated, reassuring members that the party remains united and focused under the recognised leadership of Mark and Aregbesola.
