ADC: Credibility of 2027 Elections Must Be Non-Negotiable — David Mark

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has said the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections must be non-negotiable, insisting that the party will accept the outcome only if the process is free, fair, transparent and credible.

Mark spoke on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation of the International Republican Institute (IRI), led by former United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Jendayi Frazier, as part of the institute’s Pre-Election Assessment Mission ahead of the 2027 polls.

The ADC chairman expressed concern over the alleged abuse of Nigeria’s electoral process by governments in power and, increasingly, by non-state actors.

He also condemned reports of violence and intimidation during the recently concluded Osun State governorship election, describing reports that about 30 people lost their lives as “reprehensible and condemnable.”

Mark stressed that elections should not be treated as a war or a do-or-die contest, but as a democratic process through which citizens freely choose their leaders and pursue their aspirations for development and improved living standards.

“As a political party, we want to contest elections in a secure environment that guarantees free, fair, transparent and credible elections, where every vote counts and every legitimate mandate is respected,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to ensure that the 2027 electoral process is inclusive, peaceful and free from manipulation, intimidation and abuse of state institutions.

According to him, credible assessments by organisations such as IRI would help identify emerging challenges and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Mark welcomed the institute’s engagement with political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders, assuring the delegation that the ADC would openly share its experiences and concerns.

He also commended IRI for its continued support for democracy, credible elections and good governance in Nigeria since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999.

Responding, Frazier said the IRI delegation was in Nigeria to assess the preparedness of political parties and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.

She added that the mission would engage key stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the country’s political and electoral environment ahead of the polls.