Osun 2026: Atiku, David Mark, Aregbesola Rally Voters for ADC Candidate Najeem Salaam
Osun 2026: Atiku, David Mark, Aregbesola Rally Voters for ADC Candidate Najeem Salaam
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola have intensified the party’s campaign ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, urging voters to support ADC candidate Najeem Salaam.
The ADC leaders made the appeal during a major campaign rally at Freedom Park in Osogbo, where party leaders, supporters and stakeholders gathered to mobilise support for Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly.
Atiku told the gathering that the ADC represents a credible political alternative in Nigeria, expressing confidence that the party could provide the leadership required to address the challenges confronting Osun State.
The former Vice President also recalled the support he received from Osun voters during the 2023 presidential election, when he contested on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He appealed to the electorate to extend similar support to the ADC governorship candidate.
According to Atiku, the ADC has attracted experienced and prominent political figures from different parts of the country, which he said has strengthened the party ahead of future elections.
He urged residents not to be intimidated during the election and called on supporters to participate peacefully while ensuring that their votes are protected within the provisions of the law.
Aregbesola, who served as Osun State governor and later Minister of Interior, dismissed speculation that the ADC was negotiating an electoral alliance with another political party ahead of the governorship election.
He maintained that the ADC was going into the election independently and expressed confidence in the party’s ability to compete strongly.
Aregbesola also linked the ADC’s political philosophy to the progressive ideals associated with the late Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, saying the party was committed to policies centred on education, social development and improved welfare.
David Mark also urged Osun voters to support Salaam, expressing optimism about the ADC’s chances in the election. He encouraged supporters to remain peaceful and vigilant throughout the electoral process.
Speaking at the rally, Salaam promised to implement a 10-point development agenda if elected governor.
His proposals include free education, youth empowerment programmes, increased investment in agriculture, improved electricity supply and expanded healthcare services.
The ADC candidate also pledged free healthcare for children and elderly residents as well as free antenatal services for pregnant women as part of his proposed social intervention programmes.
With the Osun governorship election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, the ADC leadership is seeking to translate its growing national profile and Aregbesola’s political influence in Osun into votes for Salaam.
