In a major move set to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have voluntarily stepped down to allow former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola to take charge. The party’s founding National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, announced the decision at a high-profile event in Abuja, where the ADC was officially unveiled as the main platform for a new opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event took place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, and gathered top political figures from across the country. The ADC’s new direction is aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s administration and offering Nigerians a strong alternative.
Nwosu explained the decision, saying:
“We all decided to resign so that Mark, Aregbesola and others can lead us to the Villa. We also approved Mark as National Chairman and Aregbesola as the National Secretary of the party. When you look at the two of them and their commitment to this country, you’ll see that this is a new beginning. They will reposition the party and Nigeria.”
This bold step by ADC leaders is seen as a sacrifice for the greater good of the party and the nation. Nwosu described the move as necessary to give the party a fresh start and to attract experienced leaders who can unite Nigerians and bring new energy to the opposition.
David Mark, who served as Senate President for eight years, is widely respected for his leadership skills and ability to work with people from different backgrounds. Rauf Aregbesola, a former governor of Osun State and immediate past Minister of Interior, is known for his progressive ideas and strong grassroots support. Their appointments are expected to bring discipline, unity, and a clear vision to the ADC, making it a credible alternative to the ruling party.
The ADC’s transformation comes as part of a larger effort by opposition leaders to unite ahead of the 2027 elections. The coalition includes well-known names such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi. The aim is to present a united front and a strong alternative to President Tinubu.
The decision to use the ADC as the main platform for the coalition was made after delays in registering a new party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). With the ADC now serving as the main vehicle for the opposition, the coalition can move forward without waiting for INEC’s approval.
The resignation of the ADC’s old leadership and the appointment of Mark and Aregbesola is a significant moment in Nigerian politics. It shows that opposition leaders are willing to put aside personal ambitions and work together for the good of the country. This is a rare example of unity in a political landscape often marked by division and infighting.
The move is also a clear signal to the ruling party that the opposition is serious about winning in 2027. By bringing together experienced leaders and grassroots supporters, the ADC hopes to build a movement that can appeal to voters across Nigeria.
With the new leadership in place, the ADC and its coalition partners will focus on building a strong organization, developing clear policies, and reaching out to voters. The party’s leaders have promised to run a campaign based on values, accountability, and good governance.
Rauf Aregbesola, in his acceptance speech, made a strong statement about the purpose of a political party:
“A political party is not a platform for opportunism. It is not a mere vehicle to power for the few, nor a tool for personal ambition. A political party, in its truest form, is a living institution—built on values, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve.”
This vision is expected to guide the ADC as it prepares for the 2027 elections. The party’s leaders have also promised to work closely with other opposition parties, civil society groups, and the Nigerian people to build a better future for the country.
While the ADC’s new leadership brings hope and excitement, there are also challenges ahead. The party will need to overcome internal divisions, build trust among its members, and present a clear alternative to the ruling party. It will also need to reach out to young people, women, and other groups that have traditionally been left out of the political process.
Despite these challenges, the ADC’s transformation is a positive step for Nigerian democracy. It shows that change is possible and that leaders can work together for the good of the country.
Conclusion
The resignation of the ADC’s old leadership and the appointment of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola marks a new era for the party and for Nigerian politics. With experienced leaders at the helm and a clear vision for the future, the ADC is well positioned to become a major force in Nigerian politics. As Ralph Nwosu said, “This is a new beginning. They will reposition the party and Nigeria.”
Stay woke. Stay tuned. Stay with AKEWE NEWS.
