National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, on Wednesday declared that the party has been adopted as the platform to lead a new political coalition ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. According to Mark, the coalition aims to “rescue, rebuild and return power to the people” in the face of what he described as increasing authoritarianism under the current administration.
Speaking at an event in Abuja to formally announce the adoption of the ADC as the coalition’s political vehicle, David Mark said the time had come for Nigerians to unite in the face of what he called “civilian dictatorship.” He noted that the coalition includes several opposition factions, including the Atiku Abubakar-led group from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and is courting support from the Obidient movement under the Labour Party.
Mark, a former Senate President, accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of capturing democratic institutions and turning Nigeria into a one-party state. He claimed that the government’s interference in opposition parties is part of a larger plan to limit the democratic space ahead of 2027.
According to him, “The blatant destabilisation and infiltration of all major opposition political parties is aimed at achieving only one objective—state capture and the elimination of alternatives for Nigerians in the next election. This coalition is a direct response to that threat.”
He further said, “We have never seen a government so much at home with corruption. A government that completely disregards accountability and places politics above governance. Nigerians are hungrier, poorer, and more fearful than ever.”
The former Senate President also criticised the National Assembly, saying it had become a rubber stamp of the executive. “The legislature has been completely caged. Never in our history have we had lawmakers reduced to mere cheerleaders. It is dangerous for our democracy and a betrayal of the Nigerian people,” he said.
Mark added that the coalition is not just about gaining power, but about offering Nigerians an alternative rooted in national values, economic reforms, and democratic accountability. “This coalition is for every Nigerian who believes that our democracy must not die. Whether young or old, male or female, rich or poor, we must all come together to rescue Nigeria,” he said.
Chibuike Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation and one-time Governor of Rivers State, was also present at the event and officially announced his resignation from the APC. In his remarks, Amaechi lamented the state of the economy, rising inflation, and increasing hardship among Nigerians.
“Everything is gone. People cannot afford food. Inflation is at its peak. The APC and INEC are working hand-in-hand to rig the 2027 elections. That is why I had to leave,” Amaechi said.
Amaechi’s resignation signals deeper cracks within the ruling party, especially as he joins other former political rivals in the new opposition coalition. He stressed that urgent action is needed to save Nigeria from further economic decline and social disintegration.
Despite the strong statements from key figures, not everyone is optimistic about the coalition’s chances. Okey Ikechukwu, Executive Director of Development Specs Academy, expressed scepticism about the viability of the alliance. He argued that the coalition consists of political actors who have deep ideological and personal differences.
“You cannot have a coalition of disgruntled politicians—most of whom have long-standing rivalries—expecting them to work together. Nearly all of them want to be president. Who will step down for the other?” he questioned.
Nonetheless, Mark said the decision to adopt the ADC as the coalition’s political platform followed several months of consultations and was not rushed. He insisted the party was selected for its structure, values, and track record of clean internal processes.
The new coalition says it is preparing to unveil a national manifesto that will focus on job creation, security, youth empowerment, and institutional reforms. It also promised to ensure women and persons with disabilities are fully represented in its political structure.
Meanwhile, the APC has not issued any official statement regarding the comments made by Mark and Amaechi. However, political analysts believe the ruling party will likely dismiss the coalition as another alliance of failed politicians.
As Nigeria heads towards the 2027 general elections, the emergence of this coalition under the ADC umbrella adds a new layer of complexity to the political landscape. While the coalition faces internal questions about unity and leadership, its leaders insist that they are determined to offer Nigerians a credible alternative to what they describe as a failing government.
