ADC dissolves leadership, hands over to Mark-led executive

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has inaugurated a new leadership team, marking a significant shift in the party’s direction.

The inauguration was done at the party’s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Tuesday at the Chelsea Hotel, Abuja.

Former Senate President David Mark has taken over as National Chairman, with former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as Secretary and Bolaji Abdullahi as National Publicity Secretary.

The new leadership team is part of a caretaker committee established to guide the party until its next national convention.

The committee includes six Deputy National Chairmen from different geopolitical zones.

Moreover, David Mark has pledged to prioritize internal democracy, transparency, and accountability, with a focus on grassroots empowerment and inclusivity.

He aims to reserve 35% of leadership positions for women and create space for youth under 40.

A 50-member policy committee has been set up to define the party’s blueprint across key sectors, including health, education, agriculture, security, and the economy.

Meanwhile, the party has reportedly seen a surge in interest, with over three million Nigerians registering as paying members within one week of Mark’s appointment.

States have requested at least two million membership cards each, indicating growing public support.

Chief Ralphs Okey Nwosu, the outgoing National Chairman, reflected on the party’s transformation from a fledgling movement to a “government in waiting” with over 28 Senators, 60 Members of the House of Representatives, and numerous state lawmakers.

Nwosu revealed that the party faced attempts to undermine its coalition initiative, including offers of ministerial appointments and intimidation.

However, the party remained firm in its commitment to democracy and opposition.