Ralph Nwosu Steps Down as ADC Chair

Makes Way for David Mark’s Leadership

The long-serving National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ralph Nwosu, has officially resigned from his position, paving the way for former Senate President David Mark to assume the role of interim national chairman.

Nwosu made the announcement on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, during a press briefing in Abuja, revealing that the entire executive leadership of the ADC under his tenure had also chosen to step aside in a show of unanimous support for Mark’s leadership.

This leadership transition comes as part of a broader political realignment, with the ADC emerging as the central platform for a coalition of opposition forces preparing for the 2027 general elections. Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola was also announced as the party’s new national secretary.

Speaking at the formal unveiling of the ADC as the coalition’s flagship platform, Nwosu emphasized that the coalition’s objective goes beyond politics and power grabs.

“This is about repositioning Nigeria on the global stage,” Nwosu said. “The ADC has always been committed to the renaissance of Nigeria and Africa. This movement began about 18 months ago, and we have held over 12 NEC meetings since then.”

He added that the decision to relinquish leadership was made in the national interest:

“We are a party that values collaboration and unity. When approached, we made it clear we were also in discussions. A day like this demonstrates that we are willing to make sacrifices for Nigeria. We trust in David Mark’s leadership, and that’s why we’ve all chosen to resign.”

The high-profile event, held at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, drew key political figures from across Nigeria’s major parties—including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Labour Party (LP).

Notable attendees included PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, and ex-Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

Also in attendance were former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, ex-Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, among others.

The event marked a major milestone in efforts to consolidate Nigeria’s fragmented opposition and chart a united path toward 2027.