Senator Mark
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, has called on opposition leaders to unite in what he described as a “national rescue mission” to address insecurity, economic hardship, and concerns over Nigeria’s democratic direction.
Mark made the appeal while addressing a summit of opposition figures, where he urged political actors to rise above party divisions and personal interests in the interest of national recovery.
According to him, the gathering represented more than routine politics, but a response to urgent national challenges requiring collective action.
“Our gathering here today is an urgent response to our nation’s call to patriotic duty,” Mark said.
“My prayer is that history will remember us, that when the nation cried out to be rescued, we answered.”
Security Situation
The former Senate President painted a grim picture of the country’s security landscape, citing recurring killings, kidnappings, and widespread fear across communities.
He said many Nigerians now live under constant anxiety as criminal violence continues in several parts of the country.
Mark claimed that more than 12,000 conflict-related deaths were recorded in 2025, while an average of 15 people are killed daily and about 19 abducted each day.
Though the figures were not independently verified at the summit, they formed the basis of his criticism of the government’s handling of security.
“Fear has taken the place of freedom, and uncertainty has replaced hope,” he said.
Mark accused the Federal Government of failing in its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.
“We are a nation that is constantly in mourning, yet the government carries on with a shocking indifference as if nothing is wrong,” he stated.
Criticism of the APC Government
Mark also criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress, saying the administration appears disconnected from the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.
“While these killings and kidnappings continue relentlessly, the APC-led government is behaving as if all is well,” he said.
The remarks come amid growing criticism from opposition parties over insecurity, inflation, and rising living costs under the current administration.
Warning Against One-Party Rule
The ADC chairman further warned against what he described as efforts to weaken opposition politics and impose one-party dominance.
He said democracy depends on credible alternatives and citizens’ freedom to choose among competing political platforms.
“The ruling party has done everything to deny the people of Nigeria the right to choose,” Mark said.
“They want to foist a one-party state on Nigeria.”
He added that any attempt to undermine political pluralism would be resisted through lawful and democratic means.
“The move towards a one-party state is real and it will not happen in our generation,” he declared.
Call for Opposition Unity
Mark stressed that no single opposition party can effectively challenge the current system alone.
He said only a broad coalition based on trust, discipline, and common purpose can provide a credible alternative.
“We cannot confront the future as fragmented entities. We must be united to salvage our nation,” he said.
He also warned against selfish interests and hidden agendas that could weaken cooperation among opposition forces.
“There must be no hidden agendas. The success of our collective effort depends on our ability to build and sustain trust,” he added.
Political analysts say coalition talks among opposition groups may intensify as future elections approach.
Economic Concerns
On the economy, Mark argued that recent changes in the government’s economic management team suggested official recognition that policies were not delivering expected results.
“When a system is functioning effectively, you do not replace leadership,” he said.
“Reshuffling the cabinet at this late hour cannot save them from the verdict of the people.”
Nigeria continues to grapple with inflation, unemployment pressures, and high living costs, making economic performance a central issue in national politics.
Electoral Confidence
Mark also questioned public trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission, alleging that many Nigerians no longer see the body as neutral.
“When the referee clearly wears the jersey of one of the teams, the legitimacy of the entire process is undermined,” he said.
“Nigerians have lost confidence in the electoral body. INEC is no longer an impartial umpire.”
INEC has consistently maintained that it remains independent and committed to credible elections.
A Defining Moment
In his closing remarks, Mark urged opposition leaders to see the summit as a historic opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s future.
He called for a movement focused on restoring democratic values, improving security, and rebuilding confidence in governance.
“Let this summit go down in history as the moment when everything changed,” he said.
Despite the challenges outlined, Mark expressed optimism that a united opposition could not be ignored.
“If we stand together with conviction, discipline, and sincerity, no force will be strong enough to stop the will of the Nigerian people,” he added.
His remarks are expected to fuel fresh political discussions as parties continue to reposition ahead of the next electoral cycle.
