The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of posing a serious threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Mark made the remarks while receiving Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), into the ADC.
He warned that instead of strengthening democratic values, the country is witnessing a troubling shift aimed at weakening opposition voices.
He said, “We are witnessing a steady attempt to concentrate power in an individual and edge our nation toward a one-party state. Kwankwaso joining the ADC represents our collective resolve to align with the people. The ruling party is determined to leave the people with no choice. Nigerians must have a choice. Nigerians must have the right to choose.”
According to him, democracy thrives on participation, stressing that any effort to limit political space is a direct attack that must be resisted through lawful means.
He added, “What we are witnessing today is one of those lawful means. It is our way of saying no to totalitarian rule in Nigeria. It is a way of saying, ‘Let the people decide.’ By coming together, we are sending a clear message that the future of Nigeria cannot be built through domination; it must be built through participation. Leadership cannot be sustained by control; it must be earned through trust.”
Mark described the ADC as a rallying platform for a new national movement built on inclusion, competence, integrity, and progress, driven by Nigerians committed to reclaiming the country.
He further called on citizens and groups across political, ethnic, and social lines to unite, saying: “This is a movement whose time has come. We call on all Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, region, or political history, to join us. Join us in shaping a nation where leadership is accountable, where governance is people-centred, and where every voice matters. Join us in building a country where the part of the country you come from, or the language you speak, does not limit the opportunities you get.”
“Even as we stand here, we extend an open hand to other political parties, civil society groups, youth movements, and patriots across the country. The task ahead is bigger than any one group. Now is the time to rise above ego. Now is the time to embrace sacrifice. Now is the time to build a broad, disciplined, and united coalition committed to rescuing our democracy and making life better for all Nigerians.”
“Let this moment be remembered as the turning point, when Nigerians chose unity over fear, participation over control, and hope over resignation. Together, we can build the Nigeria we deserve. Together, we can secure the future we desire. The movement has begun. The time is now.”
Meanwhile, Kwankwaso urged his supporters to register with the ADC in large numbers, emphasizing the need for collective action to drive meaningful change ahead of future elections.