The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, has descended hard on the ruling All Progressives Congress, declaring it the greatest danger to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Mark made the explosive remarks in Kano while formally receiving political heavyweight Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso into the ADC following his defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party.
The political gathering attracted top opposition figures, including Peter Obi, John Odigie-Oyegun, Aminu Tambuwal, Rauf Aregbesola, Emeka Ihedioha, Babachir Lawal, and Lawal Daura, among others.
Mark described Kwankwaso’s defection as a bold and strategic move aimed at rescuing Nigeria’s democracy from what he called an alarming drift toward a one-party state.
“Today marks a defining moment in the history of our democracy; it marks a special day in our journey to make Nigeria a better country; and a more united nation. We stand together today, not just as one political party, but as people united to make our dear country Nigeria a better nation. Nigeria, can be better and must work better for all Nigerians.”
Rallying opposition forces, Mark said Kwankwaso’s move reflects a wider call for unity among political actors determined to resist authoritarian tendencies.
“Today, we have come together in unity of purpose, conviction, and vision. Your coming to ADC is not merely a political statement, it is a deliberate response to the clarion call by well-meaning Nigerians for all opposition leaders to be united and present a common front to protect our democracy.
“There is no doubt that the ruling party, the APC, represents the most dangerous threat to multiparty democracy in Nigeria today. At a time when Nigeria should be strengthening her democracy, we are witnessing a dangerous drift to weaken opposition. We are witnessing a steady attempt to concentrate power in an individual and edge our nation toward a one-party state.
“Your 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. In a democracy, participation is everything. And anything that is done to close the space on participation is a direct attack on democracy and must be resisted through all lawful means.
“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.
“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-centered, 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.”
