Former Senate President David Mark has officially severed ties with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined a powerful new opposition coalition aiming to unseat President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Mark, who played a prominent role in shaping Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, has now been named the National Chairman of the newly formed coalition platform. His resignation from the PDP was made public through a formal letter dated June 27, 2025. Addressed to the PDP leadership in Otukpo Ward 1 of Benue State, the letter was obtained on Wednesday and has since stirred major political discourse nationwide.

Mark’s Departure: A Turning Point

In his resignation letter, Mark expressed deep disappointment over the current state of the PDP, lamenting its decline from a national powerhouse to what he described as a fractured and ridiculed entity. He wrote:

“I bring warm greetings to you and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otukpo Ward 1, and by extension, to the entire Benue State and Nigeria. I write to formally inform you of my decision to resign my membership of the party with immediate effect.”

Recalling his loyalty to the PDP, Mark emphasized that he remained one of its most steadfast members, even during its most difficult moments, including the aftermath of the 2015 presidential defeat. He claimed to have worked tirelessly to rebuild the party, foster reconciliation among warring factions, and restore its image. However, he noted that the persistent leadership tussles, entrenched internal divisions, and loss of political direction had ultimately rendered the PDP a “shadow of its former self.”

“After wide consultations with my family, friends, and political associates, I have resolved to join the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement in Nigeria, as part of the collective effort to rescue our nation and preserve our hard-earned democracy.”

ADC Becomes the New Opposition Vehicle

Insider sources revealed that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been adopted as the political vehicle for the new coalition, which has brought together major political figures from across the ideological and partisan spectrum. Following a strategic meeting on Tuesday night, Mark was nominated as the coalition’s interim national chairman, while former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola was appointed as the protem national secretary.

This coalition, according to sources at the meeting, is not just another political alliance. Rather, it is a deliberate and expansive convergence of influential leaders united by a shared commitment to end the dominance of the APC and usher in a new era of governance in Nigeria.

Who’s in the Coalition?

The coalition boasts a heavyweight lineup of political leaders, reflecting a serious challenge to the current administration. Key figures involved in the alliance include:

• Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State

• Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate

• Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State

• John Odigie-Oyegun, former APC National Chairman

• Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation

• Liyel Imoke, former Governor of Cross River State

• Aminu Tambuwal, former Governor of Sokoto State and ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives

• Kashim Imam, seasoned political strategist and former presidential aspirant

These leaders reportedly met to formalize the coalition, set its agenda, and outline its strategic roadmap for the 2027 elections. According to sources close to the meeting, the gathering was not just symbolic; it signaled a unified front committed to democratic reform and electoral transformation.

A Coalition with a Mission

Political insiders suggest that the emergence of this coalition is the strongest signal yet of a serious and organized push to dislodge the APC. With deep-seated dissatisfaction over rising inflation, insecurity, and perceived policy failures under President Tinubu’s administration, many Nigerians—especially youths—are reportedly looking for credible alternatives ahead of 2027.

The coalition’s stated mission is to build a united political front, harness collective experience, and deliver a “people-oriented leadership” capable of reversing Nigeria’s current socio-economic decline.

What Comes Next?

Observers believe David Mark’s emergence as the national chairman of this new coalition could dramatically alter Nigeria’s political dynamics. Mark brings significant experience, national recognition, and a reputation for discipline and strategic planning. His leadership could provide the structure and credibility needed to unite various opposition blocs ahead of the next general elections.

Already, political analysts are speculating that the coalition may evolve into a full-fledged merger or electoral alliance with the goal of presenting a single presidential candidate in 2027. If such unity is achieved, it could pose a formidable challenge to the APC’s grip on power.

Final Thoughts

David Mark’s departure from the PDP marks the end of an era and the beginning of a bold political realignment. His alliance with other national figures under the new opposition coalition signals a renewed momentum to reshape Nigeria’s political future.

As the countdown to 2027 begins, all eyes are now on how this coalition will build its base, engage voters, and offer a compelling vision to Nigerians. The months ahead promise intense political activity and possibly, a realignment that could redefine Nigeria’s democratic journey.