David Mark, Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Senate President, has stated that Northern Nigeria’s persistent poverty, insecurity, and economic struggles are self-inflicted due to poor leadership and division among elites.
He made the remarks while delivering a keynote address titled “Unity and Social Cohesion as a Panacea to the Challenges Facing Northern Nigeria” at the 3rd Expanded Meeting of the National Political Consultative Group (North) in Abuja.
David Mark lamented that despite the region’s vast agricultural potential, mineral resources, and cultural heritage, it remains plagued by insecurity, illiteracy, unemployment, and infrastructure decay.
He urged Northern leaders to stop blaming external forces and instead take responsibility for the crisis. “We must admit we are the architects of our problems,” he said.
“Division, selfish politics, and neglect of education have turned our villages into battlegrounds and made North Nigeria’s poorest region.”
The former Senate President highlighted how ethnic and religious divisions have been exploited by politicians, weakening collective demands for good governance.
He called for a return to justice, equity, and mutual respect, recalling an era when Northern identity superseded tribal or religious affiliations. Mark particularly criticised politicians for weaponising ethnicity during elections, leaving communities fractured.
Proposing solutions, David Mark emphasised investment in education, equitable resource distribution, and job creation to address poverty fueling crime. He also advocated reviving community-based security systems akin to the old Native Authority structure.
“The North bled profusely under our watch; only we can heal it,” David Mark stated, urging leaders to reject hate speech, promote dialogue, and prioritize unifying projects in healthcare and infrastructure.
The ADC chairman expressed optimism that the region could regain its past glory if elites prioritise collective progress over personal interests. The consultative meeting aimed to foster political unity among Northern leaders to address the region’s developmental challenges.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
