A leadership dispute has erupted within the Bauchi State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with the state chairman, Mr Hassan Haruna, accusing unnamed individuals of orchestrating a crisis within the party.
Haruna made the claim on Sunday in Bauchi while addressing journalists, firmly rejecting reports that he had been suspended from his position.
He described the alleged suspension as the handiwork of impostors and disgruntled party members determined to destabilise the ADC amid its rising political profile in the state.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the controversy followed a press conference by a group claiming to have removed Haruna over alleged anti-party activities.
Haruna maintained that the move was unconstitutional, stating that his election as state chairman followed a valid congress recognised by the party’s national leadership. He noted that the same process applied across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He added that the ADC constitution provides clear procedures for disciplining or removing officials, none of which, he said, were observed in the current situation.
The chairman further alleged that those making the suspension claims were acting as paid agents intent on creating internal division. He said Aminu Muhammad, a former local government chairman of the party, had been expelled, while Babayo Musa Garba remained suspended, as stated in letters dated 2 January.
Haruna urged party members and the public to ignore statements issued by individuals he described as self-appointed leaders, reaffirming that the ADC remained open to Nigerians who shared its democratic ideals.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to monitor the situation, assuring party supporters of unity and continuity.
Responding to the claims, Aminu Muhammad rejected Haruna’s assertions, arguing that Haruna was not the legitimate chairman of the party in Bauchi State. He also denied receiving any letter of expulsion and insisted that due process must be observed in disciplining party officials.
