ABUJA — National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has warned that the party will resist any attempt to manipulate or rig the 2027 general elections, while assuring that the party will operate within the nation’s electoral laws and guidelines.
Mark made the declaration on Wednesday in Abuja when the Governing Council of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development, led by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, paid a visit to the ADC national headquarters.
The ADC chairman said the party was committed to conducting its activities in a manner that would strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
“We hold ourselves to the highest standards of good conduct as a political party. We will play by the rules. But we will not accept rigging or allow ourselves to be rigged out,” Mark said.
He stressed that the ADC would comply with the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and adhere to the party’s own code of conduct as contained in its Orange Book.
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Mark also reiterated his concerns about the possible misuse of state institutions in the 2027 elections, warning that every effort must be made to protect the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.
According to him, Nigerians must have confidence that their votes will count and that political parties will be allowed to participate in a free and fair electoral environment.
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Ariwoola Urges ADC to Promote Peaceful Elections
Speaking during the visit, Justice Ariwoola urged the ADC leadership to ensure that its candidates, officials and supporters respect electoral laws and refrain from actions capable of triggering political violence before, during and after the 2027 elections.
Ariwoola said the Savannah Centre was engaging political parties and other relevant stakeholders as part of its efforts to promote peaceful, free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
He encouraged the ADC to promote issue-based campaigns and ensure that its members conduct themselves responsibly throughout the electoral process.
The former Chief Justice emphasized the importance of political parties playing a constructive role in protecting Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring that electoral competition does not degenerate into violence.
The Governing Council of the Savannah Centre, popularly known as the “Council of the Wise,” was reconstituted in June with a mandate to engage political actors, institutions and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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The engagement with the ADC is part of broader efforts to encourage political parties to embrace democratic values, peaceful participation and respect for electoral rules as Nigeria prepares for another crucial general election.
With political activities already intensifying ahead of 2027, David Mark’s warning adds to growing calls for all political actors and institutions to ensure that the next election is conducted in a transparent and credible manner.
