INEC confirms David Mark as ADC Chairman, Aregbesola as Secretary

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized two prominent Nigerian politicians, Sen David Mark and Ogbeni RAUF AREGBESOLA as the new leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). According to the confirmation, David Mark, a former Senate President, will now serve as the National Chairman of the ADC, while Aregbesola, Nigeria’s immediate past Minister of Interior, takes up the position of National Secretary.

David Mark is a veteran politician and retired military officer who represented Benue South Senatorial District for decades. He made history as one of Nigeria’s longest-serving Senate Presidents, holding the gavel from 2007 to 2015. Known for his conservative style and influence in national politics, Mark’s return to party leadership could signal renewed energy for the ADC.

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is a seasoned politician and technocrat. He previously served as Governor of Osun State from 2010 to 2018 before being appointed Minister of Interior by President Muhammadu Buhari. With a grassroots political base and reputation for administrative reforms, his presence as ADC’s National Secretary brings organizational strength and national visibility to the party.

The ADC, though not one of Nigeria’s dominant political parties, has consistently positioned itself as a “third force” alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). With the entry of high-profile figures like David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola into its leadership, the party may be seeking to boost credibility, expand its grassroots presence—especially in the North-Central and South-West zones where both leaders wield influence—and reposition itself for stronger participation in upcoming elections, including the 2027 general polls.

Political observers are already weighing in on the development. Some see this as a potential game-changer for the ADC, while others believe it may simply add to the shifting political alignments ahead of 2027. Either way, the recognition by INEC cements David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the new faces of ADC leadership—ushering in what could be a turning point for the party.