# Tags

ADC CHAIRMAN MOURNS FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has lamented the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a hero, an uncommon patriot, and a selfless leader. Senator Mark expressed his condolences, stating that Nigeria has lost a great leader at a critical time when his fatherly advice was most needed to navigate the nation’s leadership challenges. “Nigeria has lost a hero, an uncommon patriot, and a selfless leader who gave his all for the good of our nation,” Senator Mark said. “The greatest sacrifice which would be difficult to fault was his love for this country, particularly her unity.” Senator Mark, who served as the military Governor of Niger State under Buhari’s military administration, noted that it is sad that the former President passed away at this time. However, he finds solace in the fact that Buhari’s legacy of keeping the nation united will endure. “It is sad that President Buhari transited to the great beyond at this time, but we are consoled that his legacy of keeping the nation united will endure,” he said. Senator Mark’s tribute highlights Buhari’s commitment to Nigeria’s unity and development, and his contributions to the country’s growth and stability. The ADC Chairman’s statement is a testament to the impact of Buhari’s leadership on the nation and its people.

OPPOSITION COALITION UNVEILS DAVID MARK, RAUF AREGBESOLA AS ADC INTERIM LEADERS

A coalition of opposition parties has appointed former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim Chairman and Secretary, respectively, of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The ADC has been adopted as the coalition’s platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to sources, the appointments were made at a meeting of the National Opposition Coalition Group held in Abuja on Tuesday night. The sources, who requested anonymity, disclosed that the coalition leaders unanimously agreed on Mark and Aregbesola for the roles. “We just concluded a meeting tonight,” one of the sources said. “Mark and Aregbesola have been appointed as the ADC Interim National Chairman and National Secretary. This will be officially unveiled tomorrow, so we are on track.” Former Sports Minister Bolaji Abdullahi has been appointed as the interim National Publicity Secretary. The ADC’s existing National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, and his National Working Committee have agreed to stand aside temporarily, enabling the interim leadership to steer the platform through its foundational phase. The coalition’s decision to adopt the ADC follows alleged attempts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to delay the registration of new political parties, including the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA). Aregbesola, who initially rejected the offer, has since accepted the role of Interim National Secretary after being prevailed upon by stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of values-based politics grounded in ideology, discipline, and public service. The new leadership lineup will be formally unveiled in Abuja today, marking the official launch of the ADC as the coalition’s political vehicle. The coalition aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the 2027 general elections.

FORMER SENATE PRESIDENT DAVID MARK WARNS OF SELF-DEFENSE IN BENUE IF GOVERNMENT FAILS TO ACT

Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, has expressed deep concern over the continued and escalating killings of citizens in Benue State, warning that the situation may compel residents to resort to self-help and defend themselves if the government continues to fail in its fundamental duty of protecting lives and property. Senator Mark decried the deteriorating security situation in Benue, which has led to the loss of hundreds of lives and widespread destruction of property. He described the killings as “senseless, tragic, and unacceptable.” According to him, the primary responsibility of any government is the welfare and security of its citizens, and any deviation from this mandate constitutes a gross disservice to the people. “This is the unfortunate reality the Benue people are confronted with. Government must rise to its responsibility, or risk leaving the people with no option but to defend themselves,” he said. Senator Mark urged the Federal Government to fulfill its constitutional obligation to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians. He also called on the state government, under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia, to intensify its efforts in ensuring the safety of the people. Additionally, Senator Mark appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security agencies in identifying and apprehending those behind these heinous crimes. To the people of Benue, Senator Mark offered a message of solidarity and resilience. “This is a trying moment for our people,” he said. “We must unite, mobilize, and speak with one voice against the invaders. We must refuse to bow to fear.” Despite the ongoing provocations, he urged the people to remain law-abiding, stay united, and uphold the enduring spirit of being their brother’s keeper.

FORMER SENATE PRESIDENT DAVID MARK CELEBRATES 77TH BIRTHDAY, URGES NIGERIANS TO UNITE

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has marked his 77th birthday by calling on Nigerians to put aside their differences and work together to address the nation’s security, political, and economic challenges. Speaking at a church service in Abuja, Mark attributed his longevity and achievements to the blessings of Almighty God, saying, “All glory and praise to Almighty God.” He dedicated his life to serving God and humanity, expressing gratitude for the gift of life. The former Senate President emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming national challenges, stating, “I believe that with God, all things are possible. I believe that if we come together to tackle our common challenges, the answer will be obvious.” In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Innocent Jooji lauded Senator Mark’s eight-year tenure as Senate President, describing it as unblemished. Fr. Jooji urged those in authority to prioritize people’s needs, saying, “Government exists because of the people, therefore, your policies and programs should ordinarily be people-centered.” He also counseled governments to listen to citizens’ yearnings and aspirations, noting that “the voice of the people is the voice of God”.

SENATOR DAVID MARK CONDEMNS HERDSMEN ATTACKS IN BENUE STATE

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has condemned the recent attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in several communities in Benue State, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of properties worth billions of naira. In a statement, Paul Mumeh, Special Adviser to Senator David Mark, said Mark expressed concern over the attacks in various local government areas, including Otukpo, Agatu, and Gwer-West. “It is heartwarming that some of the beasts involved in the dastardly acts have been apprehended by security agents,” Mark said. Paul Mumeh noted that Mark urged for diligent investigation and prosecution of those involved. Mark called on youths to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, while cautioning against stereotyping or reprisal attacks on any group. “There should be no stereotyping of any ethnic group or reprisal attacks on any group of people due to these unfortunate incidents,” he stated. Paul Mumeh added that Mark commiserated with those who lost loved ones, saying “May their souls rest in peace”.

DAVID MARK MOURNS EDWIN CLARK, AYO ADEBANJO, DESCRIBES THEM AS LAST OF THE TITANS

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has lamented the passing of two elder statesmen and patriots, Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo. Senator Mark described their demise as “the end of an era, thus creating a void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape”. In a statement, the Media Adviser to Senator David Mark, Paul Mumeh, quoted Senator Mark as describing Clark and Adebanjo as the “last of the conscience of the nation, who tirelessly fought for a progressive Nigeria of equal opportunities for all.” Mumeh added that Senator Mark noted both elder statesmen were united in their quest for an egalitarian society, free from oppression and marginalization. Senator Mark also stated that their exit is painful and regrettable, especially at this time when Nigeria needs men of good conscience and valour to address the numerous challenges. However, he noted that Clark and Adebanjo may not have seen a Nigeria of their dreams, but they have laid a solid foundation for future growth and development. Senator Mark urged the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to immortalize Clark and Adebanjo for their selfless services and contributions to Nigeria. He hopes that the ideals of patriotism, equal opportunities, unity, peace, and progress, which the departed elder statesmen advocated, will inspire Nigeria’s future growth. Paul Mumeh stated that Senator Mark consoles the immediate families, governments, and people of Ogun and Delta States, urging them to find solace in the credible legacies left behind by the two elder statesmen.