The Independent National Electoral Commission has officially recognised former Senate President, David Mark, as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress.
This recognition ends months of leadership tussle within the opposition party and comes after a period of restructuring aimed at repositioning the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC, in an update on its official website on Wednesday, listed Mark as the new leader of the party alongside other national officers. They include former Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who was named National Secretary; Dr. Ibrahim Mani as National Treasurer; Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary; and Professor Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor as National Legal Adviser.
With INEC’s endorsement, the David Mark-led leadership is expected to begin reconciliation and mobilisation across the country. Party insiders say the goal is to rebuild the ADC’s structures, strengthen its influence, and prepare for the next polls.
The recognition also marks the official resolution of internal disputes that had slowed the ADC in recent years.
Meanwhile, INEC has raised fresh concerns about politicians engaging in early campaigns in violation of electoral laws.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ roundtable in Abuja on Wednesday, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of The Electoral Institute, Professor Abdullahi Zuru, said aspirants and parties now disguise campaigns as philanthropy or appreciation messages through billboards, social media, and public gatherings.
“When aspirants or parties compete to dominate visibility long before the official campaign period, it distorts fairness and raises the cost of political competition,” Zuru said.
He warned that premature campaigning distracts elected officials from governance, erodes public confidence in the electoral system, and encourages disregard for the rule of law.
“We must refine the regulatory framework so that what constitutes premature or early campaigning is more clearly defined in today’s digital age,” he added.
According to him, aspirants also use cultural festivals, religious events, branded vehicles, and social media influencers as fronts for early campaigns.
The development comes as opposition parties intensify efforts to reposition ahead of 2027, with the ADC now set to play a more active role under its new leadership.
