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| David Mark |
Abuja, Nigeria In a stunning political development, former Senate President David Mark has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after more than two decades of membership, citing the party’s steady decline, unresolved internal crises, and leadership failures.
In a letter dated June 27, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Chairman of his Otukpo Ward in Benue State, Mark expressed deep regret over the current state of the party he helped build from its inception in 1998.
“I have remained firm and deeply committed to the ideals of the PDP even when many others left after the 2015 presidential defeat. I pledged to remain the last man standing. But recent events marked by deepening divisions, persistent leadership crisis, and irreconcilable differences have reduced the party to a shadow of its former self.”
A Founding Member Bows Out
David Mark, a retired Army General and Nigeria’s longest-serving Senate President (2007–2015), was a founding pillar of the PDP. His resignation marks his first political exit from the party since its creation 26 years ago and underscores the growing disillusionment among elder statesmen within the opposition.
Political analysts have noted that Mark’s departure could further weaken the PDP’s influence in Benue State and the Middle Belt, where he remains a respected political heavyweight.
Call for Coalition Before Exit
Ironically, just days before announcing his resignation, Mark joined fellow party stalwarts — including Atiku Abubakar, Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Babangida Aliyu — in a joint communiqué urging Nigerians to unite under a broad coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The statement emphasized the need for unity, economic revival, strengthened security, and a renewed commitment to democratic governance. However, Mark’s personal departure now casts doubts on the cohesion of the opposition front.
Implications for the PDP
The PDP has yet to release an official response to Mark’s resignation. However, insiders confirm that internal divisions — especially following recent congresses and national leadership disagreements — have further alienated several senior party members.
Mark’s exit adds to the list of prominent defections and withdrawals from the party, once Africa’s largest political platform, as it continues to struggle with post-2015 identity and direction.
What’s Next for David Mark?
While Mark has not announced any immediate plans to join another party or seek political office, sources close to him suggest he may take on a non-partisan elder statesman role, working quietly behind the scenes to shape national discourse.
As Nigeria heads toward the 2027 elections, Mark’s departure may prompt a new wave of realignments and strategic partnerships — both within and outside the PDP.
Reporting by News House
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