Democracy Must Prevail, Says ADC Chairman David Mark at Convention

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, asserted on Tuesday that Nigeria's democracy must be safeguarded, cautioning against what he termed increasing efforts to silence dissenting voices.

Speaking at the ADC's 2026 National Elective Convention in Abuja, Mark informed party members, supporters, and stakeholders that the assembly signified a crucial juncture in Nigeria's democratic journey.

"I welcome all of you, not merely to a convention, but to a moment that history will remember for a long time… and ask, where were you when the ADC stood up? Where were you when the government made every attempt to silence the voice of the people?" he posed.

He added, "Thousands of sons and daughters of Nigeria gathered today in Abuja and said unequivocally, democracy will not die on our watch."

Mark characterised the convention as the first under his leadership and one of the most significant political events in recent memory, stressing that its importance stemmed from its symbolic representation.

"This is one of the most significant gatherings in recent Nigerian democratic history… It represents the unyielding survival of opposition democracy in Nigeria," he stated.

The former Senate President reaffirmed that the ADC was established on principles of service-oriented politics, rather than personal ambition, and pledged to reorient the party as a catalyst for national progress.

"I accepted this responsibility with humility, with a clear sense of duty, and with an unshakable commitment to reposition the ADC as a platform through which Nigeria will be rescued and rebuilt," he declared.

Mark, however, accused unspecified entities of attempting to impede the party, alleging interference through institutional and administrative challenges.

"Forces that feared what a united ADC represents came for us through the courts, through institutions, through bureaucratic obstructions. They sought to stop this convention from happening," he explained.

"They removed our names from official portals. They denied us preferred venues. They deployed every instrument available to ensure that you… would never gather. But here we are."

He maintained that such actions had only fortified the resolve of the party and its constituents.

"You have not weakened us. You have welded us together. Every attempt to suppress this party has only deepened the resolve of our members," Mark affirmed.

The ADC chairman warned that the shrinking political freedoms in the country presented a grave danger, asserting that the party would not retreat.

"We will not surrender because what is at stake is not just about the ADC or the opposition. It is the very survival of democracy," he proclaimed.

"To surrender… is to yield the ground to tyranny and become complicit in the destruction of our democracy."

Mark also presented the ADC as a viable alternative for Nigerians, particularly the younger population yearning for change.

"Across Nigeria, there is a growing awareness by a generation that deserves a different country… Under the harsh light of this scrutiny, the ADC is emerging as a credible alternative," he observed.

He called for unity among opposition leaders across different political affiliations in what he described as a patriotic endeavour to rescue the nation.

"We say to all opposition leaders in the country, regardless of your political party, come, let us work together to save our country," he urged.

Describing the party’s mission as extending beyond a mere pursuit of power, Mark underscored its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for citizens.

"Our objective is not merely political success… but a duty to demonstrate that democracy can actually deliver a better life," he stated.

He further pledged that the party would prioritise accountability and service, asserting that no individual would be placed above its regulations.

"In the ADC, the constitution will be supreme. The party will be supreme… No member, no matter how highly placed, will be bigger than the party," he declared.

Mark assured Nigerians that if given the opportunity, the party would champion governance focused on the people.

"We shall return politics to its true purpose, which is to improve the lives of the people… The resources of Nigeria will be deployed in the service of the majority," he said.

Expressing confidence in the party’s prospects, he noted that the ADC could significantly influence Nigeria's future if it maintained unity and discipline.

"I have no doubts that if we remain disciplined, united, and committed to our principles, this party will play a defining role in shaping the future of this country," he concluded.

Mark then officially declared the convention open.

"It is with great pride and pleasure that I declare this eighth national convention of the African Democratic Congress open… God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria."