No Room for Half Measures, David Mark Warns: Coalition Members Must Fully Embrace ADC or Step Aside

 

The interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has made a firm declaration regarding the future direction of the party. According to the former Senate President, only dedicated and loyal members will be part of the unfolding political journey under his stewardship. He issued a stern warning to those perceived to be engaging in anti-party behavior or failing to demonstrate absolute commitment to the ADC’s core values and mission.

Addressing a gathering of ADC faithful in Abuja, Mark emphasized the urgent need for discipline, unity, and strategic reorientation within the party ranks. The message was unambiguous: individuals must make a clear choice between standing with the ADC or stepping aside.

“There will be zero tolerance for anti-party and any form of indiscipline. You are either in ADC or not in ADC,” he stated categorically.

Mark’s position reflects a broader attempt to reshape and redefine the internal structure of the party as it positions itself to become a formidable force in Nigeria’s political arena. With the recent adoption of the ADC by the opposition coalition, the party has seen an influx of influential political figures; however, not all of them have formally pledged allegiance.

The party, known for championing progressive policies and inclusive governance, is now setting its sights on a generational shift. Mark disclosed that ADC's leadership structure from polling units to the national level will be reviewed and modernized to reflect current realities. This move, he noted, will reinvigorate the party’s grassroots base and ensure that every level of participation is aligned with national aspirations.

“We shall reverse our grassroots leadership structures to reflect modern realities from the polling units upwards to the national level. Every organ reenergised,” Mark said.

Furthermore, the party plans to open its doors to the next generation of leaders, ensuring that young Nigerians find a home in the ADC. Mark stressed that future nominations and leadership roles would be designed to include and empower youth, thus positioning the party as a platform for real change rather than recycled politics.

This statement from the interim chairman comes at a time when the ADC is navigating complex political waters. Despite being central to the opposition coalition’s formation, some of its most recognizable associates, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have not officially joined the party. Their association with the coalition has been widely publicized, yet their formal alignment with ADC remains pending.

Political analysts suggest that Mark’s recent remarks are a veiled call for clarity and commitment from these high-profile figures. As the ADC attempts to consolidate its position as a credible alternative to the two dominant parties, the question of loyalty and alignment becomes increasingly critical.

David Mark’s approach signals a shift from tolerance of political ambiguity to a demand for allegiance. His tenure, though interim, already appears to be characterized by decisive leadership, clear expectations, and a vision centered on integrity, inclusion, and modern governance.

The former Senate President is known for his calm but firm leadership style. His emergence at the helm of ADC is expected to bring stability and a new sense of direction to the party, which has often been viewed as fragmented or lacking in national cohesion.

His message also serves as a caution to those who may be using the coalition as a political convenience while avoiding firm commitments. The ADC, under his leadership, is sending a strong signal that it intends to be more than a stopgap or fallback option for political heavyweights.

The repositioning of the ADC comes amid growing calls across the country for a political reset. With the electorate increasingly disillusioned by the status quo, parties like the ADC have a unique opportunity to offer something new, provided they maintain internal discipline and articulate a coherent vision.

As Nigeria inches closer to another election cycle, the importance of unity, clarity of purpose, and loyalty within political parties cannot be overstated. David Mark’s warning is more than rhetoric; it is a strategic directive aimed at building a disciplined, modern, and forward-thinking political movement capable of challenging entrenched powers.

Whether his message will lead to a renewed ADC or further polarization within the coalition remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that under Mark’s leadership, sitting on the fence is no longer an option.