The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is navigating a critical moment of transition, and at its helm, party founder and National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, believes only a man of uncommon pedigree like former Senate President David Mark can provide the anchor of stability and direction.

Speculation surged across political circles: had David Mark, the taciturn general turned legislator, been appointed interim National Chairman of the ADC? Nwosu neither confirmed nor denied the reports. But in a carefully worded statement, he hinted at seismic shifts within the party’s leadership structure, promising clarity in the coming days.

“For the past 18 months, the ADC has been in transition,” Nwosu revealed. “We are on a mission to reconstruct a political platform that citizens and patriots alike can believe in—not the same old charade, but a home for men and women of integrity and moral courage.”

Having shepherded the party from inception, Nwosu’s comments reflect a strategic recalibration ahead of the 2027 general elections, one that could dramatically alter the opposition landscape.

He heaped praise on David Mark, describing him as the embodiment of principled leadership the ADC sorely needs.

“Distinguished Senator David Mark has served this country in multiple capacities and demonstrated steadfast patriotism,” he said. “That is the kind of leadership we must offer Nigeria. To build a party grounded in stability, focus, and discipline, there’s hardly a more fitting figure than David Mark, if he chooses to accept that patriotic call.”

“This is not about ethnicity, region, or party quotas,” Nwosu declared. “It is about Nigeria. And we must seek out those rare patriots who have lived and sacrificed for the country. David Mark is one such man—perhaps the clearest exemplar of the vision we intend to present to Nigerians.”

Pressed on whether Mark had indeed been appointed, Nwosu was cryptic but confident: “By next week, everything will become crystal clear.”

The party’s National Secretary, Baba Abdullahi, echoed this cautious optimism without offering confirmation.

“It’s not a rumour in limbo,” he said. “But let’s wait until it is properly unveiled.”
David Mark, a retired army general and senator for two decades, famously held the gavel as Senate President from 2007 to 2015. A long-time stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he has yet to publicly renounce his membership, adding intrigue to his rumoured move.

Beyond party transitions, deeper political tremors are being felt nationwide. Since January, opposition heavyweights have intensified back-channel talks aimed at forging a formidable coalition capable of dislodging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

In a rare convergence of ambition and necessity, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi are among those leading the charge.

In May, it was reported that the opposition leaders had agreed to adopt the ADC as their shared platform in the next general election—a strategic move that now casts the ADC’s ongoing leadership transition in a new light.

Should David Mark emerge at the helm, the ADC may well become the crucible through which Nigeria’s next major political realignment is forged, with far-reaching implications for 2027 and beyond.