The African Democratic Congress (ADC) ushered in a new era of leadership on Tuesday as it held its 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja. At the historic gathering, former Senate President Senator David Mark was sworn in as the Interim National Chairman, while former Osun State Governor Ogbenu Rauf Aregbesola assumed the position of Interim National Secretary.
The event marked a significant transition in the party’s structure, with Senator Mark pledging a renewed commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusive governance. In his inaugural address, he emphasized youth and women inclusion, promising that 35% of all leadership roles will be allocated to women, and that young Nigerians under 40 will play a key role in shaping the party’s future.
As part of his reform-driven agenda, Senator Mark announced the establishment of a 50-member Policy Committee tasked with reviewing the ADC’s manifesto and proposing strategic reforms in governance, economy, education, and national security.
Outgoing Chairman, Hon. Ralph Nwosu, in a reflective speech, commended the ADC for resisting attempts to undermine its independence, stating,
“ADC said no to dictatorship. We stood our ground for democracy, rejecting financial inducements and pressures aimed at turning Nigeria into a one-party state.”
In a major development, the NEC also passed a resolution to reinstate all previously expelled members—excluding 2023 presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu—and formally dissolved the former National Working Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT). This clears the path for the new leadership to operate with full responsibility until new congresses are held.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were present to observe the proceedings, affirming the credibility and transparency of the convention.
The NEC meeting signals a turning point for the ADC as it prepares to position itself as a major political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
