Former Senate President David Mark has declared that Nigerians have lost confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the electoral body of bias and collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking at a national summit of opposition political party leaders in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, Mark urged opposition figures to unite and challenge the current administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. He described the task ahead as a “national rescue mission,” emphasizing that the struggle is not just between political parties but between Nigerians and the APC.
Mark, who also serves as the National Chairman of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC), accused INEC of abandoning its role as an impartial umpire. He claimed that both the APC and INEC are actively working to suppress opposition parties and opposition figures. “The APC is willing to suppress the opposition political parties and opposition political figures,” he stated. He stressed that Nigeria has never been a one-party state and must not become one in the current generation. “We cannot win as fragmented segments,” he added, calling for unity among opposition leaders.
The summit, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, brought together prominent figures from across the opposition spectrum. Among those present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister of Information Professor Jerry Gana, activist Aisha Yesufu, and political analyst Professor Pat Utomi. Also in attendance were former governors Rauf Aregbesola of Osun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto, Rabiu Kwankwanso of Kano, and Yunusa Tanko. Former governors Abdulfatai Ahmed of Kwara, Rotimi Amechi of Rivers, and Babangida Aliyu of Niger also participated in the gathering.
The meeting underscored growing concerns within Nigeria’s opposition about electoral fairness and political space. Mark’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among opposition leaders that the current electoral environment is stacked against them. His call for unity signals a strategic shift toward consolidating efforts to challenge the APC’s dominance in the next election cycle. The summit serves as a platform to discuss strategies, coordinate actions, and build a cohesive front against the ruling party.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the opposition’s ability to present a united front will be critical. Mark’s declaration highlights the urgency of restoring public trust in the electoral process and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors. The coming years will test whether opposition parties can overcome internal divisions and effectively challenge the ruling party’s grip on power.
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