David Mark resigns from PDP, joins opposition coalition

In a significant political shift, former Senate President David Mark has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, bringing an end to his decades-long association with the party that once dominated Nigeria’s political landscape. His decision, made public in a letter dated June 27 and addressed to his ward chairman in Otukpo, Benue State, reflects growing discontent with what he described as deep internal divisions and the party’s continued decline in national relevance.

David Mark, who has been one of the most enduring figures in the PDP, noted in his letter that he remained with the party through its toughest seasons, especially after the 2015 general elections when many other key stakeholders abandoned ship. However, he expressed regret that the party has been unable to recover or reposition itself, adding that recent developments have made it increasingly difficult for him to continue believing in its future.

Following consultations with his political allies and close associates, Mark announced his decision to join a growing opposition alliance known as the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement. This coalition is made up of prominent political actors and parties united by the goal of providing an alternative to the current administration and preventing what they describe as a slide into authoritarianism.

Mark is expected to take a leading role in this coalition, serving as Interim National Chairman as they prepare to adopt the African Democratic Congress, ADC, as their political platform for the 2027 general elections. The existing leadership of the ADC has reportedly agreed to step aside to allow for a merger that will give the opposition coalition a structured, legally recognized platform.

This move is seen by many as a coordinated effort to consolidate Nigeria’s fragmented opposition landscape. David Mark’s emergence as a central figure in the coalition has already sparked renewed attention and speculation across political circles, especially as other high-profile figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi are also being linked to the realignment.

Though the coalition is still finalizing its leadership team, especially the position of National Secretary which has already seen some prominent figures decline the offer, preparations are ongoing for a formal unveiling in Abuja. The coalition is expected to present a united front, with a strategic vision aimed at dislodging the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in the next general elections.

David Mark’s defection is not just a personal political decision, it is a reflection of the wider instability within the PDP and the shifting sands of Nigeria’s political terrain. His voice, experience, and influence may prove instrumental in reshaping opposition politics in the lead-up to 2027, as Nigerians watch closely to see whether this coalition can offer a credible and organized challenge to the status quo.