Abuja, Nigeria – While announcing the African Democratic Congress (ADC)'s renewed ideological direction, newly inaugurated National Chairman, Senator David Mark, stated that the party will no longer allow individual candidates to determine how power is wielded once elected. Instead, the ADC will be guided by a unified national policy framework anchored in progressive governance and collective accountability.

Senator Mark made this statement during his inaugural speech at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party, where he formally assumed leadership alongside a newly inaugurated National Working Committee (NWC).

“We shall clearly articulate what we stand for. Nigerians must know us as a party driven by unblemished ideology, progressive policies, and patriotic governance. We will not leave it to the discretion of individual candidates to choose what to do with power,” he said.

To give structure to this vision, Senator Mark announced the creation of a 50-member Policy Committee, which will shape the party’s positions on health, education, agriculture, technology, security, the economy, infrastructure, and other key national priorities. According to him, this committee will be central to the review of the party’s manifesto and constitution, ensuring they reflect the true aspirations of Nigerians.

This move marks an intentional deviation from individual politics, expressing the party’s intent to build a unified ideological brand that all candidates must align with. In his words, “ADC must be known for what it stands for, not who happens to be contesting under its platform.”

Senator Mark, a former Senate President, emphasized that internal democracy, structured financing, collective leadership, and disciplined party membership would define his tenure. He also reiterated a commitment to inclusivity, with 35% of leadership positions reserved for women and a dedicated effort to integrate youths under 40 into critical roles across party structures.

“We will be fair and just to all party members. We promise to be totally transparent. ADC will have zero tolerance for anti-party and other forms of indiscipline,” he declared.

Senator Mark paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Hon. Ralphs Okey Nwosu, acknowledging his courage, patriotism, and years of leadership that built the foundation the party stands on today. He also commended the loyalty and resilience of ADC members who kept the party’s vision alive.

The Chairman concluded by calling on Nigerians from all walks of life to join the ADC.

“Our handshake is across all divides. ADC is the only party that guarantees equal opportunity to everyone regardless of age, gender, religion, or region,” he said.

The inauguration was held in Abuja and witnessed by key party stakeholders and representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It marked a defining moment for the party’s future direction, ideologically, guided by policy, and accountable to the people.