The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has said that many Nigerians are searching for a credible political alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the party must not disappoint citizens looking for a new direction.
Mark, a former Senate President, made the remarks on Saturday during the National Executive Committee meeting of the ADC in Abuja, where he called on party members to unite and strengthen the party as a viable opposition platform.
According to him, Nigeria is grappling with severe security and economic challenges that have left many citizens frustrated and uncertain about the future.
“Many citizens are increasingly searching for a credible political platform. The ADC must not fail them,” Mark said.
He lamented the worsening insecurity across several parts of the country, noting that communities have been displaced, farmers are unable to cultivate their lands freely, and businesses are struggling to survive under difficult economic conditions.
“Nigeria today faces profound challenges. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across many parts of our country. Communities are displaced, farmers are unable to cultivate their lands freely, businesses struggle under difficult economic conditions, and millions of families face hardship and uncertainty,” he stated.
Mark also expressed concern over the rising cost of living, unemployment, declining purchasing power and growing social discontent, saying the situation requires urgent intervention from those in government.
“Equally troubling is the growing economic burden on ordinary Nigerians. Rising cost of living, unemployment, declining purchasing power and social discontent demand urgent and sincere attention from those entrusted with governance,” he said.
The former military governor of Niger State, however, said the ADC would not seek to exploit the suffering of Nigerians for political gain.
“As a responsible opposition party, the ADC does not celebrate the difficulties confronting our nation, nor do we seek political advantage from the pain of our people. Rather, we stand firmly in support of every sincere effort aimed at restoring peace, security, economic stability and national cohesion,” he added.
Mark urged governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and improve the welfare of citizens.
He also called for unity within the ADC, warning members against actions capable of weakening the party ahead of future elections.
“Our strength lies not in division but in unity. We must resist every tendency capable of weakening our collective resolve. Personal ambition must never supersede party interest,” he said.
The ADC chairman acknowledged complaints and petitions arising from the party’s recent primaries in several states and constituencies, assuring aggrieved members that the leadership would address all grievances in accordance with the party’s constitution.
“I am aware of the numerous complaints, concerns and petitions arising from our party primaries across various states and constituencies. These issues are neither unusual in democratic contests nor beyond resolution within the framework of our party constitution and established procedures,” he stated.
He disclosed that the National Working Committee would review recommendations submitted by appeal committees before taking final decisions.
According to Mark, the party’s goal is to field candidates with the credibility, capacity and electoral strength required to win elections and effectively serve Nigerians.
He further urged members across the country to deepen grassroots mobilisation efforts and remain committed to building a stronger political platform ahead of the 2027 polls.
