By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
Nigeria’s opposition politics took a dramatic turn as David Mark, chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Thursday accused the electoral body of undermining democracy and acting in favor of the ruling government.
Addressing a world press conference, Mark declared that Nigeria’s democratic gains since 1999 are under serious threat, warning that recent developments signal a “relentless assault” on fundamental freedoms, including the right to choose, participate, and associate politically.
He specifically criticized the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that worsening insecurity and poverty were consequences of governance failures.
According to him, there is a deliberate effort to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Coalition and Party Leadership Dispute,
Mark explained that a coalition of opposition forces had united under the ADC to defend Nigeria’s multi-party system.
He said the party followed due process in restructuring its leadership during a National Executive Committee meeting held on July 29, 2025, which he noted was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The meeting led to the dissolution of the party’s National Working Committee and the appointment of a caretaker leadership, with Mark as chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as secretary.
However, controversy emerged when a former party official, Nafiu Bala, who had earlier resigned, sought legal recognition as party chairman months later.
Tensions escalated following an April 1 announcement by INEC withdrawing recognition from both factions of the ADC leadership. Mark described the move as “unlawful” and accused the commission of misinterpreting a Court of Appeal directive to maintain the “status quo ante bellum.”
He argued that INEC’s action effectively leaves the party without leadership—an outcome he said has no basis in Nigerian law.
“The electoral umpire has taken sides and can no longer be trusted,” Mark said, adding that the commission’s actions amount to contempt of court.
In a strong demand, the ADC chairman called for the resignation or removal of INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, along with other national commissioners, citing loss of confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections.
He warned that the commission would be held accountable for any fallout from its actions.
Mark expressed concern that the dispute could affect the party’s participation in upcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states, as well as internal party activities scheduled for April.
Despite the controversy, he insisted that the ADC would proceed with its planned congresses and national convention, maintaining that INEC’s presence is not legally required.
Calling the situation a defining moment, Mark urged Nigerians at home and abroad to defend democratic values and resist any attempt to impose a one-party state.
He also appealed to the international community to closely monitor developments and hold accountable those undermining Nigeria’s electoral integrity.
“This is not just about the ADC,” he said. “It is about the survival of democracy in Nigeria.”
Mark concluded on a note of defiance, expressing confidence that democratic forces would ultimately prevail.
