“Nigerian public is observant and that disregarding the people’s will in the next election cycle could jeopardise the stability of the nation’s democracy”
According to a report by Arise News, on Thursday, January 8, 2026, the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party, Jacob Mark, identified the rise of “untouchable” figures as the primary driver of the ongoing turmoil within the party.
During a television appearance, Mark shared his perspective on the power struggles that have plagued the PDP since the 2023 general elections, suggesting that the crisis is less about legal battles or zoning and more about the intimidation tactics used by certain influential individuals.
In his words, “Somebody who was not known anywhere in Nigeria became a local government chairman, then became a chief of staff; thereafter, he became governor and then minister. And suddenly he is a god with a small G.”
Mark argued that this loss of humility among leaders, who often forget the party platforms that facilitated their rise, has severely eroded internal democracy.
This shift has stifled open communication and collective leadership, replacing party loyalty with a culture of fear centred around dominant personalities.
Mark further observed that when a single individual attempts to monopolise control over party structures or entire states, it inevitably breeds friction and internal splits.
He also expressed concern regarding the recent surge of defections to the All Progressives Congress, asserting that these moves are rarely motivated by the ruling party’s performance but are instead driven by a cynical belief that the 2027 elections are already a foregone conclusion.
While political leaders remain preoccupied with their future ambitions, Mark noted that the general populace is grappling with severe economic hardship, insecurity, and an escalating cost of living.
He criticised the current political climate where survival and positioning have superseded the actual responsibilities of governance.
To remedy these issues, the former legal adviser advised the PDP to seek internal resolutions rather than letting the judiciary dictate party outcomes.
He emphasised that political challenges necessitate political remedies, urging leadership to respect established party hierarchies and prioritise the needs of the electorate.
Mark warned that the Nigerian public is observant and that disregarding the people’s will in the next election cycle could jeopardise the stability of the nation’s democracy.
