Inside David Mark’s Explosive Address At The National Opposition Summit

In his remarks, Mark described the summit as a response to a patriotic duty, saying history would judge opposition leaders by how they responded to the suffering of Nigerians, from insecurity and economic hardship to rising poverty and social instability. He argued that the call to “rescue Nigeria” was not a political slogan but a necessary response to what he portrayed as a deepening national crisis.

He raised concerns over worsening insecurity, citing killings, kidnappings and terrorism as signs of a country under severe strain. According to him, government had failed in its primary responsibility of protecting citizens and appeared more focused on politics and power retention than addressing the hardships facing Nigerians.

Mark also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of weakening democratic institutions and undermining opposition parties in a bid to impose a one-party system. He warned that Nigeria’s democracy was under pressure and stressed that no single opposition party could challenge what he described as an entrenched political system without unity and collective action.

Calling for sacrifice and trust among opposition leaders, he urged political actors to set aside personal ambition and partisan interests for a broader coalition aimed at national rescue. He emphasised honesty, unity and discipline as essential for building a strong opposition capable of presenting Nigerians with a credible alternative.

The former Senate President criticised the APC government’s record, accusing it of relying on propaganda rather than performance, and argued that the current political contest was no longer merely between parties but between the ruling party and ordinary Nigerians facing hardship. He also pointed to recent changes within the economic management team as what he called an admission of policy failure.

Mark further questioned the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), expressing concern about public confidence in the electoral body and warning of consequences if electoral neutrality is not restored. He urged opposition leaders to ensure history records that they chose unity, sacrifice and national interest over division and personal ambition.

He concluded by expressing confidence that a united opposition could help restore democracy, improve security, and rebuild the country, declaring that no force would be strong enough to stop the will of the Nigerian people if opposition leaders remained committed and united.