The founder and pioneer National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dr. Ralph Nwosu, has announced a major leadership transition within the party’s political movement.
According to Nwosu, former Senate President David Mark has been appointed to lead a new political coalition with a mission to take over power at the Presidential Villa. Assisting him in this crucial role is former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, who has been named the Secretary of the coalition.
Nwosu made the announcement during a high-profile gathering at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, where the ADC coalition was officially unveiled. Speaking with emotion and determination, he revealed that the existing leadership had voluntarily stepped down in favor of the new team to drive the party’s ambition forward.
“We all decided to resign so that Mark can paddle this canoe and get us to the Villa,” he stated, signaling a united front within the party for the mission ahead.
Nwosu praised Aregbesola—once a close ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—for his exceptional public service record, calling him a man of unparalleled commitment and vision.
“Nigerians are yearning for change. They are yearning for the coalition,” Nwosu said. “I congratulate you both and assure you that, working alongside the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC), you will encounter no obstacles you cannot overcome.”
Though stepping aside from the leadership role, Nwosu affirmed that he would continue to be involved in the party’s activities, now as a grassroots participant.
“I will be speaking as a floor member. My job will not be done until we sing the national anthem at the Villa. That will be the true symbol of hope realized,” he added.
He painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s current state, likening the nation to a patient in critical condition.
“Nigeria has been in the ICU. Lives are being lost every day,” he said, urging the emerging political leadership to take bold action. “My appeal to our next leaders is to move Nigeria from intensive care to global relevance—because we can!”
He further called on members of the coalition to remain united and unwavering in their commitment to the cause.
“We can support Mark and Aregbesola through our behavior and loyalty. Anyone who speaks against what we’ve done here today is not a true ADC member,” he warned. “We must not be apologetic. We must brace ourselves for the political battle ahead. Many challenges will arise, but united as we are, we will overcome.”
The unveiling of the ADC coalition was attended by prominent political figures from across party lines, underscoring the broad appeal of the new alliance.
Among those present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections; former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai; former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi; and former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, among others.