Former Senate President David Mark has warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under increasing strain, urging political leaders to act swiftly to protect it.
Speaking on Tuesday at the national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he now serves as National Chairman, Mark said the country’s democratic space is shrinking amid rising political pressure and alleged institutional interference.
What began as a routine party gathering evolved into a broader political statement, drawing opposition figures and supporters in a show of unity. Mark used the platform to deliver a message that combined caution, resistance, and a call for collaboration among opposition leaders.
He alleged that there were deliberate attempts to frustrate the convention, claiming that certain forces used administrative and institutional channels to obstruct the process.
“Through the courts, through institutions, through bureaucratic obstruction, they sought to stop this convention from happening. They removed our names from official portals. They denied us preferred venues, but we are here,” he said.
Mark also raised concerns about the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), suggesting that recent developments involving the commission reflect broader challenges facing democratic processes in the country.
Despite these challenges, he maintained that the opposition would not retreat. “In an ever-shrinking democratic space, the ADC will not bow, we will not cower, and we will not retreat,” he said.
Beyond the immediate issues, Mark framed the situation as part of a larger struggle over Nigeria’s democratic future. He called on opposition leaders across party lines to set aside differences and work together in the national interest.
“We say to all opposition leaders in the country, regardless of your political party, come, let us work together to save our country. The challenges we face go beyond partisanship,” he added.
His remarks highlight growing concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy ahead of future elections, as opposition groups push for unity in response to perceived political pressures.
