The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, on Thursday challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to explain what he described as “fear of a free electoral contest” despite the ruling All Progressives Congress controlling a majority of states and the National Assembly.
Mark, a former Senate President, spoke at a press conference where opposition leaders condemned recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission.
He accused the administration of orchestrating moves aimed at weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such actions could pave the way for a one-party state.
“With over 30 governors and about 90 per cent of the National Assembly under your party, what exactly are you afraid of?” Mark queried.
The ADC chairman alleged that Nigeria’s democratic gains since 1999 were under threat, insisting that the fundamental freedoms underpinning democracy—choice, participation and association—were being eroded.
According to him, “Democracy is only sustained by the quality of freedom it guarantees. Without these freedoms, democracy dies.”
Mark further accused the government of deliberately undermining opposition platforms, claiming that the ADC had emerged as “the only viable opposition party” in recent months.
He particularly faulted the electoral umpire over its handling of the party’s leadership dispute, alleging bias and disregard for due process.
The former Senate President said it came as a surprise that the commission announced the withdrawal of recognition for the ADC leadership he heads, while also referencing a rival faction.
He maintained that the individual purportedly leading the faction had earlier resigned, a development he said was known to the electoral body.
Mark warned Nigerians not to remain passive in the face of what he described as democratic backsliding.
“Stand firm. Speak out. Participate. Resist any attempt to impose a one-party state on Nigeria,” he said.
He also criticised the current administration over rising insecurity and economic hardship, linking the situation to what he called governance failures.
Mark argued that worsening poverty and insecurity could influence voter decisions in 2027, alleging that this reality was driving alleged attempts to stifle political competition.
Efforts to get a response from the presidency and the Independent National Electoral Commission were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
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