Lauretta Onochie pays tribute to David Mark, describes him as national icon
By BASHIR ADEFAKA
The tribute written in detail: “We celebrate an extraordinary Nigerian statesman, David Mark, who turns 78 today, 8th April, 2026. A soldier by training, a patriot by conviction, and a bridge-builder by temperament, his life has remained deeply woven into the story of Nigeria’s UNITY and DEMOCRATIC STABILITY.”
Former presidential aide and opposition coalition’s African Democratic Congress (ADC) female frontline figure, Lauretta Onochie, has paid tribute to Senator David Mark, describing him as a national icon and a symbol of dedicated public service.
In a statement, Onochie commended Mark, who currently serves as National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), for his longstanding contributions to Nigeria’s political development and democratic growth.
She highlighted his leadership qualities, noting that his years in public office, including his tenure as Senate President, were marked by commitment to national unity and stability.
Onochie further described Mark as a seasoned statesman whose experience and influence continue to shape the country’s political landscape. She added that his role in the African Democratic Congress reflects his enduring relevance in Nigerian politics.
The tribute written in detail: “We celebrate an extraordinary Nigerian statesman, David Mark, who turns 78 today, 8th April, 2026.
“A soldier by training, a patriot by conviction, and a bridge-builder by temperament, his life has remained deeply woven into the story of Nigeria’s UNITY and DEMOCRATIC STABILITY.
“Happy Birthday to a man of duty, discipline, and destiny.
“Today (Wednesday April 9, 2026), we honour a distinguished soldier who served Nigeria with courage in uniform, and later with wisdom in public office.
“From the battlefield of national service to the chambers of democratic leadership, Senator David Mark has consistently stood as a symbol of ORDER, PATRIOTISM, and STATESMANSHIP.
*As a military officer, he embodied discipline and sacrifice.
“As a politician, he brought calm, maturity, and institutional stability.
“As Senate President, his steady hands helped guide the National Assembly through defining moments in our democracy, proving that leadership is not about noise, but about strength, balance, and vision.
“Beyond titles and offices, he has remained a fatherly figure to many—offering counsel, inspiring younger leaders, standing with and encouraging women while reminding Nigerians that nation-building requires patience, courage, and commitment.
“In difficult moments, when the nation needed voices of reason and figures of trust, Senator David Mark has often been one of those rare leaders whose presence reassures and whose words unite.
“He is one of those men who, over the years, has helped hold Nigeria together when it mattered most—through turbulent politics, constitutional tests, and moments that demanded national healing.
“Today, we celebrate not just his birthday, but a legacy of service, sacrifice, and uncommon leadership.
“May God continue to grant him strength, sound health, peace, and many more years of impactful service to Nigeria and humanity.
“Happy Birthday, Distinguished Senator David Mark — soldier, statesman, father, patriot, and one of Nigeria’s enduring pillars of unity.
“Enjoy your day, surrounded by those who love you dearly. God bless Nigeria,” said Lauretta Onochie.
The tribute underscores growing recognition of Mark’s legacy as a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
