National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has described the party’s national convention as a defining moment that will be remembered in Nigeria’s democratic history.

Speaking at the convention in Abuja on Tuesday, the former Senate President said moments of transformation are shaped by the decisions of leaders and citizens, rather than dramatic events.

“Years from now, Nigerians will look back at this day—Tuesday, April 14, 2026—and ask: where were you when the ADC stood up?” he said. “Where were you when the voice of the people was under threat, and Nigerians gathered to say democracy will not die on our watch?”

Mark said the convention, the first under his leadership, symbolises the resilience of opposition politics and the determination to preserve democratic values in the country.

“This convention will go down as one of the most significant gatherings in recent Nigerian history—not because of who is here, but because of what it represents: the unyielding survival of opposition democracy,” he added.

He reiterated that the ADC was founded on the principle that politics should be about service, not personal ambition, pledging to reposition the party as a credible platform for national transformation.

Mark, however, alleged that the party had faced significant challenges, including what he described as institutional and bureaucratic obstacles aimed at frustrating its activities.

“Recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission have raised fundamental questions about our democratic processes,” he said, alleging that attempts were made to prevent the convention from holding.

Despite the challenges, he said the party remained resolute.

“We will not bow, we will not cower, and we will not retreat. What is at stake is not just the ADC, but the survival of our democracy,” he declared.

He called on opposition leaders across political divides to unite in what he described as a collective effort to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and address the country’s challenges.

Mark also urged party members to remain committed to unity, transparency, accountability and inclusiveness, stressing that leadership within the party must be defined by service and responsibility.

He congratulated newly elected party officials at various levels, while encouraging those who did not emerge to remain loyal and committed to the party’s progress.

“The ADC belongs to the Nigerian people, and our mission is to build a platform that reflects their aspirations and delivers real change,” he said.

The ADC national convention drew delegates and stakeholders from across the country, amid renewed calls for stronger opposition collaboration ahead of future elections.