ADC Chairman David Mark Alleges APC is Undermining Opposition

David Mark, the national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has voiced strong accusations against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that the governing party is systematically weakening democratic structures within Nigeria.

Speaking at the National Opposition Summit held in Ibadan, Mark asserted that the present administration is engaged in efforts to diminish the influence of opposition parties and to curtail the fundamental right of Nigerians to freely choose their representatives.

"Over the past three years, this government has mounted significant assaults on opposition parties, all with the objective of denying citizens their right to choose. Their ultimate goal is to impose a one-party system on Nigeria," Mark declared.

He further contended that crucial institutions designed to protect democracy are facing considerable pressure and compromise. "Institutions that are supposed to safeguard our liberties and uphold the people's will are increasingly being targeted. The right of citizens to freely elect their leaders is being eroded," Mark elaborated.

The former Senate President argued that the pressure exerted on opposition parties is part of a deliberate strategy to maintain political dominance. He cautioned that no single political party can effectively counter what he described as a deeply entrenched power structure.

"What we are confronting is a regime that has demonstrated, through both its rhetoric and its actions, a clear readiness to weaken democratic frameworks and stifle dissenting voices from the opposition," he stated.

Mark urged opposition political groups to prioritize unity and the formation of strategic alliances. "We refused to allow personal ambitions to overshadow the aspirations of Nigerians for a better life. Instead, we opted for unity over division, for making sacrifices rather than focusing on self-interest, and for placing the nation above all else," he conveyed.

Addressing the electoral process, Mark expressed significant reservations regarding the perceived neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting a decline in public trust in the electoral umpire.

"The integrity of our democracy is contingent upon the impartiality and trustworthiness of its electoral bodies. When the referee overtly and unapologetically aligns with one of the competing sides, the legitimacy of the entire electoral exercise is compromised," he explained.

Mark issued a stark warning that neglecting these critical issues could severely damage the credibility of future elections, and he implored all stakeholders to take immediate action to safeguard Nigeria's democratic system.