The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has stated that the party’s presidential primary demonstrated that internal democracy can thrive in Nigeria without conflict or division.
Speaking at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton in Abuja during the collation and declaration of results, Mark praised the process that produced Atiku Abubakar as the party’s 2027 presidential candidate.He noted that Atiku defeated Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen in a competitive race that reflected strong participation across the party.
According to official results, Atiku secured 1,846,370 votes, Amaechi polled 504,117, while Hayatu-Deen recorded 177,120 votes, with over 2.5 million total votes cast. Following the announcement, David Mark presented the ADC flag to Atiku, formally confirming him as the party’s presidential standard bearer.
He emphasized that the exercise was not only about selecting a candidate but also about proving that political competition can remain peaceful and principled in Nigeria. He further commended the screening and primary committees for conducting a transparent and disciplined process despite logistical challenges and national scrutiny.
The ADC leadership also hailed the participation of all aspirants, describing the contest as proof of the party’s commitment to internal democracy and unity. Ultimately, the party said the primary strengthened confidence in its democratic process and signaled readiness for the 2027 general election cycle.
Overall, stakeholders expressed optimism that the outcome would foster unity, reduce tensions, and reinforce trust in the African Democratic Congress going forward. Observers say the process marks a new democratic benchmark in Nigeria.
