“David Mark Says ADC Primary Victory for Atiku Shows Democracy Can Work in Nigeria”

“David Mark Says ADC Primary Victory for Atiku Shows Democracy Can Work in Nigeria”

Former Senate President Senator David Mark has stated that the presidential primary election conducted by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate, demonstrates that democracy can function effectively in Nigeria when political actors respect due process and internal party mechanisms.

David Mark, who spoke after the conclusion of the ADC primary, described the exercise as peaceful, transparent, and reflective of democratic principles. According to him, the conduct of the election showed that political competition in Nigeria does not have to be characterized by violence, division, or institutional crisis.

The former Senate President noted that the successful emergence of Atiku through a structured electoral process sends a positive signal to Nigerians and the wider international community about the country’s democratic potential ahead of future elections. He emphasized that credible primaries remain a crucial foundation for strengthening political parties and improving public confidence in the electoral system.

Atiku Abubakar’s emergence as ADC’s presidential flag bearer has already generated significant political debate across Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as opposition parties continue strategic realignments ahead of the next general election cycle. Political observers believe the development could reshape coalition politics and opposition dynamics in the country.

David Mark further urged political stakeholders across party lines to prioritize issue based campaigns, internal democracy, and national unity rather than political hostility. He stressed that democratic stability can only thrive when electoral processes are transparent and accepted by participants.

The ADC primary has since attracted reactions from political analysts, civil society groups, and supporters across different regions of Nigeria, many of whom view the exercise as a test of the party’s organizational strength and commitment to democratic values.

Nigeria’s democratic journey has often faced criticism over disputed primaries, allegations of imposition, and internal party crises. However, political commentators argue that peaceful and credible primaries such as the ADC exercise could help improve political accountability and deepen democratic culture within the country.