ADC Crisis: David Mark Urges Calm, Assures Nigerians There's No Need to Panic

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By Luminous Jannamike, ABUJA

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Former Senate President David Mark on Wednesday moved to calm rising tensions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), assuring party members and Nigerians that the crisis does not threaten the party’s unity.

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The intervention comes at a delicate moment for the ADC, as internal disagreements and rival claims continue to stir uncertainty about its ability to field candidates in the 2027 elections.

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Mark, a former Senate president and embattled national chairman of the party, spoke at a church service held in his honour to mark his 78th birthday on Wednesday.

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“On the issue of the ongoing developments within our great party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), I wish to assure our members and Nigerians at large that there is no cause for alarm,” he said.

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He described the tensions as part of a natural process, signalling that the party is evolving rather than fracturing.

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“Challenges are a natural part of any growing institution. What is important is our collective resolve to overcome them,” Mark added.

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Even so, he stressed that the party’s core remains solid, with its leadership and members aligned on the bigger goal.

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“We remain united, determined, and focused on strengthening the party and upholding democratic values,” he said.

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Beyond the immediate crisis, Mark widened the lens, linking the party’s stability to the broader health of Nigeria’s democracy.

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“Let me reiterate that we are fully committed to the survival of democracy and the development of our dear nation, Nigeria,” he said.

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He added that the party would stay the course, working to ensure that democratic institutions deliver real benefits to citizens.

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“We will continue to work tirelessly, guided by discipline, integrity, and patriotism, to ensure that our democratic institutions are preserved and that the dividends of democracy reach all our people,” he said.

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Reflecting on his 78th birthday, Mark struck a personal note, expressing gratitude while signalling that his role in national affairs is far from over.

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“At 78, my resolve remains unshaken. I am inspired more than ever to contribute my quota to national unity, peace, and progress,” he said.

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