THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President, Senator David Bonaventure Mark, bringing months of internal wrangling within the opposition party to an end.
In a major update published on its website on Wednesday in Abuja sighted by News Point Nigeria, INEC listed the new National Working Committee (NWC) members of the ADC, confirming the David Mark-led team as the party’s authentic leadership.
According to the updated particulars, the new executive structure of the ADC features: Senator David Mark – National Chairman, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (former Osun State Governor) – National Secretary, Dr Mani Ibrahim Ahmad – National Treasurer, Akibu Dalhatu – National Financial Secretary and Prof. Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor (former Edo State Governor) – National Legal Adviser
The recognition is seen as a turning point for the ADC, which has been dogged by leadership crises in recent years. Political analysts believe that having a high-profile leadership team led by Mark and Aregbesola could help the party reinvent itself and mount a stronger challenge ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party stakeholders welcomed the development, saying it paves the way for stability, unity, and clearer strategy. According to them, the ADC can now focus on consolidating grassroots support, mobilising members nationwide, and building alliances necessary to compete with the dominant All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Senator Mark, who once presided over Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber for eight years, is expected to bring political experience, gravitas, and organisational discipline to the party.
His partnership with Aregbesola, a seasoned grassroots mobiliser and strategist, is already being touted as a formidable combination.
An ADC source who spoke to News Point Nigeria said, the inclusion of respected figures like Prof. Osunbor strengthens the credibility of the new leadership and signals ADC’s intention to present itself as a serious alternative in Nigeria’s multiparty landscape.
With INEC’s recognition now settled, the ADC leadership is expected to roll out its roadmap for party reforms, national membership drives, and preparations for upcoming elections.
Whether the Mark-led ADC can capitalise on this fresh start to reposition itself as a true third force remains to be seen, but the party now appears to have regained its footing.
