ABUJA
Ahead of the 2027 elections, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has cautioned against manipulation and misuse of state institutions in the conduct of the 2027 general elections, stressing that the credibility of the exercise must remain sacrosanct.
Mark made the statement in Abuja on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI. The former Senate President underscored the need for transparency, inclusivity, and peace in the electoral process. He warned that intimidation, violence, and other forms of malpractice could undermine democratic governance and erode public confidence in the polls.
Mark drew attention to the recently concluded Osun State governorship election, where reports indicated that at least 30 people lost their lives. He described the development as “reprehensible and condemnable,” insisting that elections should not be treated as a “do-or-die affair” but as a democratic mechanism through which citizens freely choose their leaders.
“For us in the ADC, the credibility of the 2027 elections must be non-negotiable. We expect the process to be transparent, inclusive, peaceful, and free from manipulation, intimidation, and abuse of state institutions,” he stated.
The ADC chairman reaffirmed his party’s commitment to ensuring that voters can cast their ballots in a secure environment, adding that every vote must count and mandates freely given by the electorate must be respected.
The visiting IRI delegation, led by African Regional Director Jenai Cox, explained that its mission was to assess Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2027 elections. Cox noted that IRI has observed Nigerian elections since 1999 and recently monitored contests in Osun and Ekiti States. The current mission, he said, would conclude later this week, after which recommendations would be made to stakeholders.
The delegation included former United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs Jendayi Frazier, IRI President Dan Twining, NDI Deputy Director for West and Central Africa Sophia Moestrup, IRI West Africa Regional Programme Director Sentell Barnes, and NDI Country Director for Nigeria Francis Madugu.
