Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), officially initiated the party’s campaign for the upcoming Osun governorship election in Ile-Ife on Tuesday. Accompanied by ADC candidate Najeem Salaam and various party leaders, Aregbesola visited the Ooni’s Palace to address a large gathering.
Met by the Lowa Adimula of Ifeland, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, Aregbesola emphasized the symbolic importance of starting the campaign in the ancient city. He noted that beginning political efforts in Ile-Ife has been a long-standing tradition for his team since 2004, serving as a way to seek ancestral blessings.
Oba Adeyeye welcomed the delegation while stressing that the palace remains neutral and committed to peace across all political divides. He highlighted the historical status of Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba people, drawing comparisons to how other ethnic groups in Nigeria prioritize the development of their ancestral hubs. The traditional ruler urged political leaders to invest more heavily in the city to match its cultural and historical significance.