David Mark PDP resignation highlights deepening internal crises as the former Senate President joins new opposition coalition after decades of loyalty
David Mark PDP resignation has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political establishment as the former Senate President formally ended his decades-long association with the Peoples Democratic Party.
Also read: PDP Aide Resigns From Top Media Role
In a letter dated June 27, 2025, addressed to the PDP Chairman in his Otukpo Ward, Benue State, Mark cited deepening internal divisions and unresolved leadership crises as reasons for his immediate exit.
The letter, titled “Notice of Resignation from the PDP,” was obtained by The PUNCH and widely circulated on Wednesday.
In it, Mark expressed disappointment over the party’s current state, describing it as a shadow of its former self.
“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,” he wrote.
Mark, who played a prominent role in the PDP during his years in the National Assembly, particularly following the 2015 presidential election loss, said he remained loyal even when many other political figures abandoned the party.
“You may recall that over the years, I have remained firm and deeply committed to the ideals of the PDP. Even when nearly all stakeholders departed the party, I pledged to remain the last man standing,” he stated.
He went on to note that his loyalty to the party involved multiple efforts to reconcile factions and reposition it for national relevance.
However, according to him, these efforts have been undermined by recent developments.
“Recent events marked by deepening divisions, persistent leadership crisis, and irreconcilable differences have reduced the party to a shadow of its former self, subjecting it to public ridicule,” Mark wrote.
The former Senate President confirmed that, following wide consultations with his family, political allies, and colleagues, he has resolved to join a broader political movement.
“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,” he stated.
David Mark PDP resignation comes at a time when opposition politics in Nigeria is undergoing rapid transformation.
Multiple parties and factions are coalescing around the idea of forming a unified platform to challenge the dominant All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of future elections.
As part of this movement, both Mark and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, have reportedly been appointed as interim National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively, of a new political coalition affiliated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Political observers say Mark’s defection is a major blow to the PDP, a party he helped build and defend for years.
It signals not only personal disillusionment but also growing dissatisfaction among other senior party members who have remained silent amid internal wrangling.
“He stayed when others left. For David Mark to walk away now shows how serious the problems in the PDP have become,” said a political analyst in Abuja who requested anonymity.
“This isn’t just a resignation. It’s a statement on the party’s collapse.”
The PDP has yet to issue an official response to Mark’s departure.
However, insiders say his decision has sparked urgent meetings among top figures who are worried about the potential domino effect within other northern political blocs.
While Mark did not reveal a formal launch date for the new coalition, sources within the ADC suggest a public unveiling is imminent.
The movement is expected to campaign on a platform of democratic restoration, unity, and leadership accountability.
Also read: Segun Sowunmi ready to work with Tinubu, will resign from PDP if appointed
As the fallout from the David Mark PDP resignation continues, Nigeria’s political future appears increasingly shaped by shifting alliances and a broader search for credible alternatives to the current political order.
