In a major political development, Hon. Rahman Owokoniran, a longstanding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has announced his resignation from the party after 18 years of active membership. His departure, which he attributed to personal reasons and a desire to avoid potential conflicts, has triggered significant reactions within the Lagos State chapter of the PDP.
In his resignation letter addressed to the PDP Ward C Chairman of Mende/Anthony, Owokoniran expressed his sincere gratitude to party leaders and members for their unwavering support throughout his political journey. He described his decision as a difficult one but necessary as he sets out to explore new professional opportunities.
In a swift political repositioning, Owokoniran has now assumed a pivotal role in facilitating the integration of the PDP Lagos chapter into the newly formed African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, which was officially unveiled in Abuja this week. The coalition, widely seen as a strategic alliance aimed at reshaping the 2027 general election landscape, is now led by former Senate President David Mark as interim national chairman, following the resignation of Ralph Okey Nwosu.
Hon. Owokoniran brings to the coalition a wealth of experience, having served in the Lagos State House of Assembly, and as Commissioner for Housing and Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Boundary Affairs during the administration of then-Governor Bola Tinubu. Notably, he also chaired the committee that established 20 Local Government Areas and 17 Local Development Councils in Lagos State — a landmark restructuring of the state’s administrative framework.
His move to the ADC coalition is viewed by analysts as a significant boost to the party’s emerging national influence. Owokoniran’s political pedigree and strategic experience are expected to enhance the coalition’s grassroots appeal, especially in Lagos State and the South-West geopolitical zone.
Political watchers are observing the unfolding developments closely, as the PDP Lagos chapter’s integration into the ADC could potentially alter the region’s political dynamics in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.
The ADC coalition has officially welcomed Hon. Owokoniran and other defectors, affirming its readiness to challenge the ruling party and other major political blocs in the forthcoming elections.
With David Mark now at the helm of the ADC coalition, political strategists predict the emergence of a formidable third-force platform in Nigeria’s evolving political theatre.
