OTUKPO, BENUE STATE — Former Senate President, Senator (Dr) David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark, has officially resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending his decades-long association with the party he once led in the National Assembly.
In a letter addressed to the chairman of PDP Ward 1 in Otukpo, Benue State, Senator Mark cited deepening internal divisions, persistent leadership crises, and what he described as “irreconcilable differences” as reasons for his decision to leave the party immediately.
Mark, who served as President of the 6th and 7th Senate and was once regarded as a stabilising force in the PDP, expressed disappointment at the party’s deterioration. He recalled remaining loyal even after the PDP’s 2015 loss, saying he “worked steadfastly to rebuild, reconcile, and reposition the party,” efforts he believes helped return the PDP to national relevance.
However, he lamented that the party had now become “a shadow of its former self” and had been subjected to public ridicule. Following consultations with his political associates, family, and friends, he revealed that he is joining the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement in Nigeria — a group of opposition leaders working to form a united front ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mark’s defection is a major blow to the PDP and a significant boost for the emerging opposition coalition, which has been gaining momentum in recent months with the backing of high-profile figures across party lines.