Owie, who made the announcement at the ADC state secretariat in Benin City while obtaining his membership card, said the party would be structured to belong to its members rather than being dominated by moneybags.
He was accompanied by prominent political figures including Sunny Aguebor; Hon. Nosa Ehima; and Douglas Iyike, a national leader of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), among others.
Speaking at the event, Owie explained that the Edo League of Democrats, formed just over a year ago, had mobilized 2,400 members in each of the state’s 18 local government areas — all of whom were directed to register formally with the ADC.
“We are coming to join the ADC, not to fight,” he said. “In the old Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), where I served in the House of Representatives, members paid monthly dues. I have told the ADC interim National Chairman that we must bring this practice back. The party must be owned by the people, not the wealthy few. Discipline and commitment are the only way forward.”
Also speaking, Aguebor noted that the ADC was originally founded in Benin City, adding that he was optimistic about its prospects. “The ADC is the platform that will deliver Nigeria. I am impressed with the resolve of the state leadership, whose only interest is rescuing the country,” he said.
On his part, Iyike explained that his decision to join the ADC was shaped by Nigeria’s current challenges. Having previously been a member of both the APC and PDP, he stressed the need for a credible opposition. “The situation in the country is not helping the people. We need a party that can stand firmly against the ruling party and provide real alternatives,” he stated.
Edo State ADC Chairman, Kennedy Odion, described the development as a privilege and expressed confidence that the new entrants would strengthen the party’s drive. “With this caliber of people joining us, I believe the ADC will rescue Nigeria,” he said.
