The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has said the emergence of former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election shows that democracy can still work in Nigeria.
PrimeTimes Nigeria recalls that Atiku defeated former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, by a wide margin at the ADC presidential primary.
Mark spoke in Abuja during the official collation and declaration of the primary election results.
The former Senate President said the exercise was not only about producing a presidential candidate but also about proving that political contests could be conducted without chaos.
Mark said, “Today is not just about announcing a presidential candidate.
“Today is also about proving a point to Nigeria and to Nigerians.
“It is about proving that democracy can still work. Proving that political competition does not have to become political warfare. That a party can organize itself around principles instead of personalities. And that in a season of deep national anxiety, a bright future is still possible.
“That is why this gathering matters. And that is why history will remember what we have done here today.”
Mark thanked ADC members for their patience and commitment to the party despite what he described as daunting challenges.
He further stated, “Let me begin by thanking every member of the African Democratic Congress for your steadfastness, your patience, your sacrifices, your understanding, and your faith in this party, especially in the face of daunting challenges.
“Many people doubted us. Some dismissed us. Others predicted confusion, division, and even outright collapse.”
The ADC chairman also commended Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen for participating in the primary.
He said the ADC stood out because it had three strong aspirants contesting for its presidential ticket.
Mark added, “It is important to mention that we are the only political party to have three strong aspirants contesting for the presidential ticket.
“This alone makes the ADC unique in its deep commitment to democracy and democratic practices.”