The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of a coordinated attempt to undermine the party’s activities and stifle the opposition.
Addressing party leaders and delegates during the ADC’s National Convention on Tuesday, the chairman stated that the party has faced “fierce and unprecedented betrayal” since the beginning of its current political journey, citing a series of institutional and bureaucratic obstacles.
“Recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have raised fundamental questions about the processes that govern our democracy,” Mark said.
### Allegations of Sabotage
The former Senate President alleged that multiple efforts were made to frustrate the convention through various channels.
“Forces that feared what a united ADC represents came for us—through the courts, through institutions, and through bureaucratic obstruction. They removed our names from official portals, denied us preferred venues, and deployed every instrument available to ensure that delegates would never gather,” Mark said, before adding defiantly, “But we are here.”
He declared that the ADC would not be intimidated, stressing that the shrinking democratic space would not force the party into retreat.
“The ADC will not bow, we will not cower, and we will not retreat,” he declared. “What is at stake is not just about the ADC or the opposition; it is the very survival of our democracy. To surrender is to yield to tyranny.”
### A Call for Opposition Unity
Senator Mark maintained that attempts to suppress the party had instead strengthened its internal cohesion.
“You have not weakened us; you have welded us together. Every attempt to suppress this party has only deepened our resolve and widened our coalition,” he added.
The party chair also noted that the ADC is gaining significant traction among young Nigerians seeking a new direction for the country. According to him, a “growing generation” is demanding accountable leadership and sees the ADC as a credible alternative.
In a direct appeal to other political actors, the chairman called for broader collaboration across party lines to challenge the status quo in 2027.
“To all opposition leaders, regardless of political party: Come, let us work together to save our country. The challenges before us go beyond partisanship; it is a patriotic duty to rescue our country,” he said.
### Integrity and Accountability
The Otukpo, Benue State-born politician commended members for the successful conduct of congresses nationwide, noting that the exercise reflected the party’s growing grassroots presence. He urged newly emerged leaders to prioritize service over personal gain.
“In the ADC, the constitution will be supreme. No member, no matter how highly placed, will be bigger than the party,” he said.
On governance, the ADC chair pledged that the party would prioritize policies that improve citizens’ welfare.
“Politics must return to its true purpose—to improve the lives of the people. Nigeria’s resources will be deployed in the service of the majority,” he stated, warning that any official elected on the ADC platform would be held to the highest standards of accountability.
Expressing optimism about the future, Mark concluded: “Future generations may look back at this period as the point when we chose a different path.”
