Aregbesola takes ‘campaign’ to Najeem Salam’s birthday, says ADC will takeover Osun in 2026
Aregbesola
National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has expressed strong confidence that God will grant victory to the ADC in the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Aregbesola made the declaration during the 60th birthday celebration of Hon. Najeem Salam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and close associate.
Speaking at the event, the former governor of Osun State acknowledged the presence of the current Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, and the governor’s representative but maintained his belief that the ADC will emerge victorious in the forthcoming election.
“I don’t want to offend the Speaker of the House, Adewale Egbedun, or the governor’s representative. But I am very sure that it is our own that God will do,” Aregbesola said confidently.
The event also featured a guest lecture by Professor Shola Omotola, who addressed the theme, “Legislative Contributions to the Sustenance of Nigeria’s Democracy since 1999: Hurdles We Must Overcome.” Prof. Omotola emphasized the need for strict laws to curb the rising trend of political defections, describing it as a major challenge to democracy in Nigeria.
He argued that the ease with which politicians switch parties without facing consequences has weakened the legislature’s capacity to strengthen democratic governance.
He proposed reforms aimed at reinforcing internal party democracy and introducing legal sanctions to deter party defections.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the Osun Assembly, Wale Egbedun, congratulated Hon. Salam on his milestone birthday, praising his lasting contributions to the legislature.
“You have always been my role model. The 8th Assembly is proud to associate with you. We see you as a role model,” Egbedun said.
He added a personal note: “I told my people that I would relocate to my community if they elected me. I did it because I saw you—being the only Speaker in the history of Osun that holds his House firmly.”
