Former Senate President David Mark has accused the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu of weakening opposition parties across Nigeria.
The current national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) spoke at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday,
He alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is deliberately stifling political competition.
Mark questioned why the president would fear a credible electoral process if he is confident in his achievements while in office.
His remarks came shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced its decision to withdraw recognition from the ADC’s National Working Committee led by him.
Reacting strongly, Mark described the move as part of a broader plan to erode opposition voices in the country.
Threat To Democracy
He warned that such actions could threaten Nigeria’s democratic foundation, portraying the ADC as one of the last remaining safeguards against authoritarianism.
According to him, dismantling opposition structures would have far-reaching consequences, potentially pushing the nation toward a one-party system.
He called on Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to resist what he characterized as an attempt to silence alternative political platforms.
Addressing the president directly, Mark pointed to the APC’s dominant control—highlighting its overwhelming presence in the National Assembly and its influence over a majority of state governments.
He argued that such political strength should eliminate any fear of open and transparent elections.
Mark also dismissed claims of internal disputes within the ADC leadership, insisting that there is no legitimate challenge to his position.
He further criticised INEC’s action, stating that the commission should have allowed the courts—particularly the Court of Appeal—to settle the matter before intervening.
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In addition, he maintained that an individual identified as Bala has no legal standing within the party’s leadership structure, reinforcing his claim that the ADC remains unified under his direction.