The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, has declared that the party stands as a fortress of democratic revival, offering Nigerians a political alternative built on principles rather than personalities . Speaking at the official collation of the ADC presidential primary results held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, the former Senate President emphasized that the exercise was about more than just producing a candidate for the 2027 general elections .
Mark stated that the primary election proved that democracy could still function effectively in Nigeria, demonstrating that political competition does not have to devolve into political warfare . He noted that the ADC was determined to distinguish itself from parties where candidates allegedly emerge through elite arrangements behind closed doors, stressing that the party allowed a free contest where members across the nation were permitted to make their choice .
Following the announcement of results, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emerged as the ADC presidential flag bearer, defeating former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen . Mark formally presented the party flag to Atiku and urged him to unite all interests within the party, reminding him that a duty now rests on his shoulders to build bridges and carry every member along .
The ADC chairman disclosed that he had hosted the three contenders to a private dinner before the primary, where he reminded them that the majority of Nigerians are looking up to the party to liberate them from the current regime of suffering . He lamented the prevailing economic and security situation in the country, noting that families are struggling to survive while young people are losing faith in leadership .
Mark also commended the aspirants for participating in what he described as a credible democratic process, stating that by subjecting themselves to the primary, they did not merely contest an election but strengthened democracy at a time when many Nigerians have expressed concerns over transparency in party primaries . He acknowledged challenges encountered in organising direct primary elections across the thirty six states and the Federal Capital Territory, but expressed pride that the party had conducted a process that was free, fair, and worthy of democratic standards .
Describing the ADC as a social democratic platform committed to people centred governance, Mark appealed to party members and supporters to remain united behind the candidate as attention shifts to the 2027 elections . He called on Nigerians seeking a credible alternative to rally behind the ADC, warning that the party must not fail the citizens who are looking up to it for liberation from hardship and declining confidence in leadership .
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