Former Senate President David Mark has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing deepening internal divisions and unresolved leadership crises within the party. Mark, who was one of the longest-serving senators in Nigeria’s history, announced his decision in a letter dated June 27 and addressed to the PDP Chairman of his Otukpo Ward in Benue State.
In the letter, David Mark expressed regret over the current state of the PDP, saying the party has become a shadow of its former self and is now exposed to public embarrassment.
He wrote, “I bring warm greetings to you and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otukpo Ward 1, and by extension, to the entire Benue State and Nigeria. I write to formally inform you of my decision to resign my membership of the party with immediate effect.”
David Mark recalled his years of loyalty to the PDP, even after the party lost the 2015 presidential election. “You may recall that over the years, I have remained firm and deeply committed to the ideals of the PDP. Even when nearly all stakeholders departed the party following our loss in the 2015 presidential election, I pledged to remain the last man standing,” he stated.
Deepening Crisis in the PDP
David Mark explained that his efforts to rebuild, reconcile, and reposition the PDP helped restore the party to national relevance after 2015. However, he lamented that recent events have weakened the PDP beyond recognition. “Recent events marked by deepening divisions, persistent leadership crisis, and irreconcilable differences have reduced the party to a shadow of its former self, subjecting it to public ridicule,” he said.
He added, “After wide consultations with my family, friends, and political associates, I have resolved to join the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement in Nigeria, as part of the collective effort to rescue our nation and preserve our hard-earned democracy.”
“I have resolved to join the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement in Nigeria, as part of the collective effort to rescue our nation and preserve our hard-earned democracy,” Mark declared in his letter.
New Role in the Opposition
David Mark’s resignation comes at a time when Nigeria’s political landscape is experiencing major realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. The National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement, which Mark has joined, is expected to bring together several opposition leaders and parties in a bid to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reports indicate that both David Mark and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, have been appointed as interim National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively, of the soon-to-be-launched ADC coalition platform. The coalition aims to unite different opposition groups and offer a credible alternative to the current government.
A Legacy of Service
David Mark’s political journey has spanned decades, during which he served as a senator for Benue South and as Senate President from 2007 to 2015. He is widely respected for his experience and leadership, and his decision to leave the PDP marks the end of an era for the party.
Mark’s move is seen as a significant blow to the PDP, which has struggled with internal disputes and leadership battles in recent years. Many observers believe that his departure could trigger further defections and weaken the party’s position ahead of future elections.
The Road Ahead
With his new role in the opposition coalition, Mark is expected to play a key part in efforts to build a united front against the APC. He has called on Nigerians to support the movement and work together to rescue the country’s democracy.
The National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement is set to unveil its platform and leadership team in the coming weeks, with Mark and Aregbesola at the helm. The coalition’s goal is to restore integrity, accountability, and true democratic values to Nigeria’s political system.
Conclusion
David Mark’s resignation from the PDP and his decision to join the opposition coalition reflect the deep challenges facing Nigeria’s major political parties. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, the emergence of a strong opposition movement could reshape the political landscape and offer new hope for democratic renewal. Mark’s experience and commitment to national unity are expected to play a crucial role in this new chapter of Nigerian politics.
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