Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Senate President, David Mark, has issued a rallying call to Nigerians to join a newly formed opposition coalition aimed at salvaging the country’s democracy and halting what he describes as Nigeria’s “creeping descent into civilian dictatorship.”
Speaking on Wednesday at the formal unveiling of the ADC as the political platform for the coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, Mark declared that the alliance of opposition parties is more than a pursuit of political power—it is a national rescue mission.
“Let it be known that this coalition of national opposition groups is not merely about winning elections,” Mark stated. “It is a collective and deliberate effort to rebuild the crumbling foundations of Nigeria’s democracy, restore hope to our citizens, and return power to the people.”
With the theme “Rescue. Rebuild. Return Power to the People,” the coalition’s unveiling at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja brought together some of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures across party lines—including 2023 presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar (PDP) and Peter Obi (formerly LP), as well as former governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), and Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), who now serves as interim National Secretary of the ADC.
Mark did not hold back in his criticism of the current administration, accusing it of systematically dismantling democratic institutions and undermining opposition parties to tighten its grip on power.
“Within just two years, this government has hijacked key democratic institutions and pushed the nation toward a one-party state,” he said. “The deliberate destabilisation of opposition parties is part of a broader agenda of total state capture, leaving Nigerians with no real options in 2027.”
He further condemned the administration for prioritising politics over governance, saying, “We are witnessing a government obsessed with elections, not solutions. It is a regime that wears corruption like a badge of honour, shows disdain for accountability, and watches idly while Nigerians sink deeper into poverty and hunger.”
Despite painting a grim picture of the current state of the nation, Mark offered hope, positioning the coalition as a viable and determined force capable of course-correcting Nigeria’s future.
“To every Nigerian who feels betrayed by broken promises… to every citizen for whom ‘renewed hope’ has become ‘renewed hopelessness,’ this coalition is for you,” he declared. “We invite all Nigerians of conscience to join us in this historic rescue mission. Together, we can rebuild our democracy and reclaim the soul of this nation.”
The high-profile gathering drew wide political representation, further cementing speculation that the coalition may emerge as a formidable third force ahead of the 2027 elections.
Also in attendance were Senator Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu, former Minister Solomon Dalung, Senator Gabriel Suswam, LP Senator Ireti Kingibe, former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, and retired Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, among others.
Political observers say the coalition, if united and sustained, could disrupt Nigeria’s traditional two-party dominance and galvanize voters hungry for reform and credible leadership.
