The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has alleged that there is no doubt the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), represents the most dangerous threat to multiparty democracy in Nigeria today.
Speaking while receiving Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the erstwhile national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), into the ADC, Mark noted that at a time when Nigeria should be strengthening its democracy, there is a dangerous drift towards weakening the opposition by the ruling APC.
He said, “We are witnessing a steady attempt to concentrate power in an individual and edge our nation toward a one-party state. Kwankwaso 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.”
He added that in a democracy, participation is everything, and anything done to close the space for participation is a direct attack on democracy and must be resisted through all lawful means.
The ADC National Chairman further said, “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.”
David Mark explained that the ADC now stands as the rallying point of a new national movement—a movement of inclusion, competence, integrity and progress—powered not by coercion but by ordinary Nigerians determined to reclaim their country.
According to him: “This is a movement whose time has come. 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-centred, 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.
“Even as we stand here, we extend an open hand to other political parties, civil society groups, youth movements, and patriots across the country. The task ahead is bigger than any one group. Now is the time to rise above ego. Now is the time to embrace sacrifice. Now is the time to build a broad, disciplined, and united coalition committed to rescuing our democracy and making life better for all Nigerians.
“Let this moment be remembered as the turning point, when Nigerians chose unity over fear, participation over control, and hope over resignation. Together, we can build the Nigeria we deserve. Together, we can secure the future we desire. The movement has begun. The time is now.”
Kwankwaso, while registering with the ADC, urged his followers to go out en masse to register with the party and ensure they bring about the necessary change Nigeria requires.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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