David Mark: ADC will no longer tolerate imposition, special privileges

David Mark, former senate president, has officially taken over as national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), promising sweeping reforms to rebuild the party and end internal imposition.

Mark was inaugurated on Tuesday at the ADC’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the Chelsea Hotel in Abuja.

His emergence marked the end of Ralph Okey Nwosu’s tenure as the founding chairman.

During the meeting, the NEC also dissolved the National Working Committee (NWC) and approved a caretaker committee to steer the party until its next national convention.

“It is with profound gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of duty that I address you as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). I am honoured by the confidence reposed in me, and I pledge before you to serve this party with integrity, transparency, courage, and vision,” Mark said.

“Today marks not just the beginning of a new NEC session, but the dawn of a new chapter in ADC; a chapter that we must write together with courage, unity and conviction.”

Mark paid tribute to Nwosu and his team, describing their tenure as one of “hard work, patriotism, sacrifices and dedication.”

He vowed to uphold internal democracy and eliminate political favouritism.

“I assure you that under my leadership, we shall be committed to full democratic practices and principles that abhors imposition and special privileges. Internal democracy, transparency and accountability will be our mantra,” he said.

The former Senate president unveiled plans to restructure the party’s grassroots operations and prioritise inclusive representation in all party structures.

“We will open the gates for the next generation. Our policies, nominations, and leadership roles will reflect meaningful inclusion of youths and women and not just tokenism,” he said.

“This is why we have reserved 35% of our leadership positions for women. It is also our commitment to have youths below the age of 40 years in our leadership.”

Mark also revealed that the ADC will establish a 50-member Policy Committee to shape its stance on education, health, security, and the economy.

“We shall clearly articulate what we stand for. Nigerians must know us as a party driven by unblemished ideology, progressive policies, and patriotic governance,” he said.

Calling on Nigerians to join the party, Mark said the ADC is open to all, regardless of age, gender, religion or region.