Senator David Mark, National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of operating a system where party primaries can be overturned through financial influence, describing the practice as a threat to internal democracy.
Mark made the remarks on Wednesday in Asaba, Delta State, during the formal inauguration of the Delta State Leadership Management Committee (DSLMT) at the ADC’s newly opened state secretariat. According to a report by Leadership News dated December 11, 2025, the former Senate President said corruption, ticket trading, and manipulation of party primaries had become entrenched in some political parties, particularly the APC.
“In APC, someone may win a primary, but another person pays money in Abuja and the name changes. It will not happen in ADC,” Mark said, assuring party members that such practices would not be tolerated under the ADC’s leadership.
He stressed that the ADC was committed to transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to party rules, noting that credible internal processes were essential to rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system.
The inauguration ceremony attracted several top national leaders of the ADC. Among them was Babachir Lawal, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and ADC National Vice Chairman (North-East), who represented David Mark at the event. Lawal used the occasion to outline the expectations of the national leadership from the newly inaugurated committee.
Also in attendance were Usani Uguru Usani, National Vice Chairman (South-South) and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs; Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary and former Minister of Sports; and Olorogun Great Ogboru, a prominent political figure and former governorship candidate in Delta State.
In his address, Babachir Lawal emphasized the need for strict compliance with the ADC Constitution and operational guidelines. He said the responsibility of the DSLMT was to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in all party activities, particularly in leadership selection and electoral processes.
Lawal warned against corruption and the trading of party tickets, describing such practices as common in other political parties. He noted that in some parties, winning a primary election does not guarantee that a candidate’s name will ultimately be submitted, due to interference at higher levels.
“Don’t waste your money or energy,” Lawal cautioned party members. “Do the right thing, and the right thing will be done.”
The national leadership reiterated its commitment to building a disciplined and principled party structure in Delta State, pledging that the ADC would uphold democratic values and resist practices that undermine internal democracy. The event concluded with a renewed resolve to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence and ensure that all members operate in line with established party guidelines.