Nine parties back ADC after David Mark’s leadership sack
By Omeiza Ajayi
Nine opposition parties, collectively known as the Coalition for Democracy, have expressed support for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a Federal High Court ruling on Thursday that dissolved the party’s leadership led by Senator David Mark and invalidated its presidential candidacy. The coalition described the ruling as “a dangerous escalation” in what it perceives to be a systematic effort to eliminate credible political opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by Salihu Moh. Lukman, the coalition emphasized that the challenges facing the ADC could extend to other opposition parties in Nigeria.
The Coalition for Democracy was formed after the G100 Opposition Summit, which took place in Abuja on August 31, 2026. Its members include the ADC, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), the National Rescue Movement (NRM), the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and the Youth Progressives Party (YPP).
The coalition has pledged to uphold Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, protect political pluralism, and ensure free and fair elections. It previously raised concerns regarding a shrinking democratic space, noting recent attacks on opposition supporters and obstructions of political activities. The group argued that the increasing use of state institutions against political rivals is alarming.
“When opposition parties face violence, experience interference from state institutions, and are threatened with judicial elimination, Nigerians must question the ruling party’s willingness to engage with meaningful opposition,” the coalition stated.
While affirming its respect for judicial independence and the right to legal recourse for aggrieved parties, the coalition cautioned against the courts being used to diminish political competition.
“Those who aim to dismantle the opposition to secure their own victory are jeopardizing the very foundations of the Republic. A government that is intolerant of opposition cannot claim to be democratic,” the statement read.
The coalition further warned that the narrowing of democratic space poses “grave consequences for national stability,” asserting that a peaceful democracy cannot exist if citizens are deprived of viable political alternatives.
“It is imperative that elections retain their role as the battleground for democracy. No political party should manipulate institutions to achieve what it fears it cannot secure through the votes of the populace,” the statement concluded.
The Coalition for Democracy expressed its solidarity with the ADC in its efforts to contest the ruling through legal channels. It called upon all opposition parties, civil society organizations, the Nigerian Bar Association, labor groups, the media, and concerned citizens to unite in lawful opposition against any attempt to undermine political pluralism.
“Let it be clear: the Coalition for Democracy will not stand idle while Nigeria transforms into a state devoid of opposition, elections stripped of choices, and ballots offering no real options. An attack on one is an attack on all, and we will resist collectively,” the coalition affirmed.
