The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally reconstituted its National Working Committee (NWC), with former Senate President, David Mark, confirmed as the Caretaker National Chairman, marking the official takeover of the party by leaders of the newly formed opposition coalition.

Mark, who was unveiled as Interim National Chairman during the launch of the ADC-led coalition on July 2, was formally sworn in on Tuesday at the party?s 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja. Former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, was also confirmed as Caretaker National Secretary.

The reconstitution followed the dissolution of the former NWC, a motion moved by the immediate past National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Suleiman Ibrahim. The motion was seconded and unanimously adopted through a voice vote by NEC members. Representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were present at the meeting.

In his inaugural address, Mark announced plans to set up committees to review the party?s manifesto and constitution to reflect the aspirations of Nigerians.

Six deputy national chairmen were also appointed to the new NWC, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal; Bamidele Ajadi; Andrew Uchendu; and Hajia Naja?atu Muhammad.

Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, was confirmed as national publicity secretary, while Dr. Mani Maman emerged as national treasurer. Former Edo State Governor, Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, was appointed national legal adviser, and former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, was also named to the NWC.

Earlier, former national chairman Dr. Ralph Nwosu alleged that members of the dissolved NWC were subjected to pressure and inducement to derail the coalition agenda. He claimed he was offered three ministerial appointments?one for himself and two others to nominate?which he rejected.

?We said no. Nigeria must not be reduced to a one-party state. ADC stood its ground, and Nigerians rallied behind us for it,? he said. (Daily Trust)

Update news