Aregbesola Boasts Ahead of 2027 Polls, Says Ruling Party ‘Cannot Rig Us Out’

Former Osun State governor and National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has declared that no political force will be able to manipulate the 2027 general elections, insisting that he is well acquainted with the alleged tactics of the ruling party.

Aregbesola spoke on Tuesday during the unveiling of the ADC in Osogbo, describing the day as symbolically tied to his political journey. He noted that it marked exactly 15 years since he assumed office as governor, an anniversary he portrayed as a reminder of his political resilience and connection to the people.

Addressing a gathering of party supporters, Aregbesola dismissed concerns about potential electoral manipulation, saying the ADC was prepared for any political manoeuvres.

“They cannot rig the election; we know their tactics,” he said emphatically. “Go and take good care of elderly women, dress them decently and let them sit in their tens at different polling units. Leave the rest to us.”

He argued that the present leadership had, in his words, “lost its way,” accusing it of failing on economic management, security, governance and public trust.

“They tried their best, but God is not with them because they didn’t begin with God. They have been disgraceful in all standards,” he claimed, insisting that both the state and federal administrations were out of favour with citizens.

Aregbesola told supporters that, with the momentum he believes the ADC is gaining, victory was inevitable both in the state and at the national level.

“By August next year, we will meet in Abere. After August, we will take over the presidency,” he declared, speaking with confidence about the party’s prospects.

The former governor also said the ADC continues to enjoy widespread goodwill across Osun, attributing this to what he termed the enduring legacies of his administration.

“There is nowhere in Osun where the people do not resonate with what we represent,” he said. “Our achievements and legacies continue to speak for us. That is why we receive this level of reception anytime we return, especially here in Osogbo.”