The Sokoto State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly rejected what it described as externally imposed leadership, escalating an internal crisis that could lead to legal action.
The party is protesting the appointment of Abdullahi Maigwandu and Aliyu Rabah as Chairman and Secretary of the Membership, Mobilisation, Revitalisation and Registration (MMRR) Committee in Sokoto State.
ADC Alleges Violation of Constitution and Internal Democracy
Speaking at the ADC State Secretariat on Monday, State Chairman Umar Faruk described the appointments as unconstitutional and lacking due process.
According to Faruk, the decision was made without consultation with the recognized state executive, raising concerns about internal democracy and party cohesion.
“This decision is unacceptable. It violates the ADC constitution and undermines internal democracy. You cannot build a party by sidelining those who laboured to establish its structure in Sokoto,” Faruk stated.
The MMRR committee is considered a strategic organ within the ADC, responsible for grassroots mobilisation, membership registration, and revitalising party structures ahead of upcoming elections.
Tension Deepens After PDP Defections
The controversy intensified following the recent defection of Maigwandu and Rabah from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Maigwandu, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, was appointed MMRR chairman barely 24 hours after resigning from the PDP, while Rabah also defected shortly before his appointment.
Faruk questioned their legitimacy within the ADC structure.
“These individuals are not properly registered members of the ADC in Sokoto State. There was no stakeholders’ meeting, no engagement with state leadership, and no transparent process,” he added.
Sokoto ADC Threatens Court Action
Warning the party’s national leadership against actions that could destabilise the state chapter, Faruk declared that all legal options remain open.
“We will not fold our arms and watch our party be taken over through the back door. We are prepared to go to court to protect the integrity of the ADC in Sokoto.”
The party also cautioned members of the public against obtaining membership cards not issued by the recognized state leadership, noting such registrations could be invalidated.
Leadership Dispute Heads to Court
State Secretary Yusuf Alkali revealed that the chapter is preparing legal action regarding the continued leadership claims of former chairman Bello Ishyaku Keegan.
According to Alkali, judicial clarification is necessary to restore order and stability within the party.
“We want clarity and order. The courts will determine the rightful leadership so that the ADC can move forward in Sokoto,” he said.
ADC Reaffirms Commitment to Due Process
Despite the crisis, the Sokoto ADC leadership reiterated its openness to new members, stressing that proper registration procedures and broad consultation must guide all political appointments.
Faruk warned that abandoning due process could weaken the party’s future.
“Our doors are open to everyone, but there must be rules. If we abandon due process today, we destroy the party tomorrow.”
