(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under former Senate President David Mark.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that INEC’s updated website on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, confirmed Mark as National Chairman, with former Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola serving as National Secretary.
Dr. Mani Ibrahim was also recognised as National Treasurer, while Akibu Dalhatu was named National Financial Secretary and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor confirmed as National Legal Adviser.
The Commission’s recognition effectively ends months of leadership tussle that had threatened the stability of the opposition party.
Senator Mark first assumed the interim chairmanship in July at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, after the resignation of former chairman Ralph Nwosu.
INEC’s decision now provides full institutional backing to the faction led by Mark and Aregbesola.
Tribune reports indicate that Nwosu had earlier written to INEC on July 29, 2025, confirming resolutions of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
In his correspondence to INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Nwosu explained that the NEC had been mandated to act on behalf of the National Convention until the next convention is convened.
The letter also included a comprehensive list of 42 national officers, naming Mark, Aregbesola, and others, which gave INEC the legal foundation to formalise their recognition.
Political analysts say the confirmation has unified the ADC leadership and positioned it for stronger participation in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
They argue that the involvement of heavyweights like David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola adds credibility and visibility to the party.
Mark, a former two-term Senate President, brings legislative experience and national recognition to the ADC.
Aregbesola, a former Osun State Governor and Interior Minister, commands a significant political following in the South-West.
Their presence at the helm is expected to attract wider support for the ADC as Nigeria approaches another election cycle.
Observers believe the development stabilises the ADC after months of uncertainty that followed Nwosu’s departure.
The leadership crisis had weakened the party’s organisational strength, limiting its capacity to act as a cohesive opposition force.
INEC’s validation is therefore being seen as a turning point, restoring order and giving the ADC a clearer structure.
The ADC, formed in 2006, has often struggled to assert itself in Nigeria’s crowded opposition space.
Although it has fielded presidential candidates and contested governorships, its performance has remained modest compared to the dominant parties.
With the new leadership, the ADC hopes to reposition itself as a serious contender, particularly by drawing on the national networks of its leaders.
Party insiders say the strategy will focus on grassroots mobilisation and building alliances with other opposition groups.
This recognition may also signal ADC’s readiness to challenge both the ruling party and larger opposition platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Supporters within the party have welcomed the INEC recognition as overdue, describing it as a step towards healing divisions.
Critics, however, warn that unity will depend on whether the Mark-led leadership can reconcile aggrieved factions sidelined by the transition.
Nonetheless, political watchers believe that the combination of Mark’s legislative clout and Aregbesola’s grassroots machinery could inject fresh momentum into the ADC.
For now, the recognition consolidates their authority and provides the party with an institutional anchor as it navigates Nigeria’s volatile political terrain.