Behind Closed Doors: David Mark, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Salihu Lukman Hold High-Stakes Political Talks
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The embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, on Friday held a private meeting with leaders of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) as the party’s internal crisis continues to escalate.
The closed-door session, conducted away from public attention, brought together prominent figures from both parties, sparking speculation about possible alliances among opposition groups ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Those in attendance included PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, PRP spokesperson Muhammed Ishaq, and former APC National Vice Chairman (North), Salihu Lukman.
Baba-Ahmed recently took over leadership of the PRP after resigning as Special Adviser on Political Matters to Vice President Kashim Shettima in April 2025, a move widely seen as his return to active politics.
Although no official statement was released after the meeting, insiders revealed that discussions focused largely on the ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC.
A source disclosed that the PRP used the opportunity to show support for the Mark-led leadership amid its disagreement with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), condemning what it described as anti-democratic actions against the party.
In response, Mark reportedly appreciated the PRP’s backing, noting that it was the only political party to openly align with the ADC during the crisis. He also expressed hope for continued cooperation between both parties in the interest of national development.
The meeting comes at a time of growing tension within the ADC, following the emergence of a third faction that backed INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition from the Mark-led leadership, citing a Court of Appeal ruling.
The faction also dismissed the leadership claim of Nafiu Bala Gombe and accused former party chairman Ralph Nwosu of attempting to hand over the party structure to individuals it described as non-members.
Made up of some state chairmen, the group claimed it held a valid National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, where it adopted a new leadership structure—further deepening the crisis within the party.
