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Kwankwaso’s Move to ADC Signals Opposition Unity, Says Mark, Warns APC Threatens Democracy
David Mark says APC threatens Nigeria’s multiparty democracy as Rabiu Kwankwaso defects to ADC. Opposition leaders call for unity against one-party dominance.
The defection of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been framed as a major step toward opposition unity, with the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat.
Speaking in Kano at a high-profile reception for the former governor, Mark said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was pushing the country toward a one-party system by weakening opposition forces.
He described Kwankwaso’s defection from the NNPP as a strategic response to growing calls for opposition leaders to unite and defend democratic space.
Prominent political figures at the event included Peter Obi, John Odigie-Oyegun, Aminu Tambuwal, Rauf Aregbesola, Emeka Ihedioha and Babachir Lawal, among others.
Mark said the moment marked a turning point for Nigeria’s political future:
“Today marks a defining moment in the history of our democracy; it marks a special day in our journey to make Nigeria a better country; and a more united nation. We stand together today, not just as one political party, but as people united to make our dear country Nigeria a better nation. Nigeria, can be better and must work better for all Nigerians.”
He emphasised that Kwankwaso’s decision carried broader national significance:
“Your coming to ADC is not merely a political statement, it is a deliberate response to the clarion call by well-meaning Nigerians for all opposition leaders to be united and present a common front to protect our democracy.”
Raising concerns about the ruling party, Mark said:
“There is no doubt that the ruling party, the APC, represents the most dangerous threat to multiparty democracy in Nigeria today… We are witnessing a steady attempt to concentrate power in an individual and edge our nation toward a one-party state.”
He argued that limiting political competition undermines democracy and must be resisted.
“Nigerians must have a choice. Nigerians must have the right to choose. In a democracy, participation is everything… anything that is done to close the space on participation is a direct attack on democracy and must be resisted through all lawful means.”
Mark concluded that the growing alliance among opposition figures was a stand against authoritarianism:
“It is our way of saying no to totalitarian rule in Nigeria… the future of Nigeria cannot be built through domination, it must be built through participation.”
He called on Nigerians across all divides to support efforts aimed at building an inclusive, accountable and people-focused system of governance.
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