ADC has appointed David Mark and Aregbesola to lead Interim Coalition as opposition gears up for 2027 general elections.
In a strategic move to reposition itself as a credible opposition force, NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has appointed several high-profile political figures, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, to its interim leadership.
The move is part of a broader plan to unify Nigeria’s fragmented opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Multiple sources confirmed to Vanguard on Wednesday that the ADC has been adopted as the central platform for a proposed opposition coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
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At a closed-door meeting held Tuesday in Abuja, David Mark was named Interim National Chairman of the ADC, while Aregbesola, a former Minister of Interior and key figure in the APC, was appointed Interim National Secretary.
Other interim appointments include:
- Chief Anayo Arinze – Interim Deputy National Chairman (South)
- Alhaji Ibrahim Manzo – Interim Deputy National Chairman (North)
- Bolaji Abdullahi, former Sports Minister – Interim National Publicity Secretary
According to insiders, the coalition includes disgruntled members from the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party, seeking to present a unified and viable alternative to the ruling party in 2027.
“This is a strategic move to unite the opposition and present a strong front against the APC,” said one source familiar with the negotiations. “The ADC was chosen because of its nationwide structure and absence of internal factions.”
The interim leadership has been mandated to restructure the party, deepen grassroots outreach, and prepare for a national convention in 2026, where a substantive National Working Committee (NWC) will be elected.
Why ADC?
Sources say the decision to adopt the ADC followed alleged delays by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in registering new political parties, including the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA). The ADC’s existing legal recognition, organizational strength, and ties to reformist ideals, particularly those associated with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, were major factors in its selection.
“INEC’s delays made it clear we needed an established vehicle. ADC’s credibility and readiness made it the natural choice,” a source noted.
The move also comes at a time of growing dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration amid rising inflation, economic hardship, and national insecurity. Opposition leaders see this as a pivotal moment to build momentum for 2027.
Transition and Support
The ADC’s founding member and outgoing National Chairman, Ralph Okey Nwosu, is reported to have voluntarily stepped down to facilitate the transition. He is expected to continue playing a role in the restructuring process, possibly as Interim Organising Secretary, though this has not been officially confirmed.
“Nwosu’s endorsement of the new leadership has paved the way for a smooth transition,” a party insider told Vanguard.
The interim leadership will immediately begin strategic outreach and regional convergence programs to consolidate support across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
If successful, the ADC-led coalition could significantly alter the political equation ahead of the next presidential election, presenting Nigerians with a united opposition bloc for the first time in nearly a decade.
