The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the appointment of prominent political heavyweights, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, to lead its interim national leadership.
This high-stakes development emerged from a closed-door meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, as confirmed by party sources on Wednesday. It forms part of a broader opposition blueprint to reposition the ADC as the flagship platform for a coalition targeting the 2027 general elections.
David Mark Named Interim Chairman, Aregbesola Secretary
According to multiple insiders, David Mark, known for his cross-party appeal and national prominence, has been named the Interim National Chairman. Rauf Aregbesola, a former Minister of Interior and a prominent APC figure, assumes the position of Interim National Secretary.
Others appointed into key roles include:
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Chief Anayo Arinze – Interim Deputy National Chairman (South)
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Alhaji Ibrahim Manzo – Interim Deputy National Chairman (North)
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Bolaji Abdullahi – Interim National Publicity Secretary
This move signals a serious bid by the ADC to become the nucleus of a broader opposition alliance, bringing together aggrieved factions from the APC, PDP, Labour Party, and other groups seeking a credible alternative to the Bola Tinubu-led administration.
Why the ADC Was Chosen
Sources familiar with the coalition said the ADC’s robust grassroots structure and lack of internal wrangling were key reasons for selecting it as the anchor party. The stalled registration of new political entities, including the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA), reportedly pushed coalition leaders to consolidate under an existing but stable party.
“The ADC was selected due to its grassroots strength and absence of internal crises,” a source disclosed. “INEC’s reluctance to register new parties accelerated this decision. It was a pragmatic choice.”
Another senior party figure said the ADC’s reformist legacy, often linked to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s political philosophy, helped seal the decision. “The party is widely seen as credible and capable of driving real political change,” the source added.
Mandate
The interim team is expected to immediately begin reorganisation efforts, initiate national outreach programmes, and prepare for a full National Convention in 2026, where a substantive National Working Committee (NWC) will emerge.
The coalition’s strategy includes region-wide mobilisation drives across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, aimed at building a formidable support base by 2027.
Meanwhile, founding member and immediate past National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, has reportedly stepped down to facilitate the transition, a move sources say was pivotal to the smooth restructuring.
“Nwosu’s decision to step down was key to facilitating this transition. His support has ensured a smooth handover to the interim team,” a party insider confirmed, adding that he may assume the role of Interim Organising Secretary, pending formal announcement.
Shaping the 2027 Political Landscape
The ADC’s dramatic repositioning, coupled with the entry of seasoned political actors, signals a clear intent to challenge the ruling All Progressive Party's (APC) dominance in 2027. With public discontent rising over inflation, insecurity, and economic reforms under the current administration, opposition forces appear to be coalescing at a critical time.
As the ADC emerges as a rallying point for change-seeking politicians and citizens alike, all eyes will be on how this coalition performs in transforming opposition rhetoric into electoral strength.
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