By Our Correspondent

National News – Former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal has dismissed claims of a crisis within the African Democratic Congress, insisting that recent defections by opposition figures were personal political decisions rather than evidence of division within the party.

Tambuwal made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics on Friday, addressing growing concerns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The controversy followed the exit of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the ADC-led coalition to the National Democratic Congress.

Their departure, alongside several lawmakers, had sparked speculation that the party structure was already tilted in favour of Atiku Abubakar.

Tambuwal, however, denied the allegation, stressing that neither Obi nor Kwankwaso publicly accused the party of bias.

According to him, both politicians simply chose another platform to test their popularity with Nigerians ahead of the polls.

He maintained that the ADC remained committed to fairness and inclusiveness despite political realignments within the opposition camp.

Defending the leadership of former Senate President David Mark, Tambuwal said the party chairman had provided a level playing field for all aspirants and stakeholders.

He added that key leadership positions within the party reflected broad representation rather than loyalty to any single presidential hopeful.

Tambuwal also revealed that Obi was allowed to nominate the party’s National Organising Secretary, which he described as one of the most influential offices in the ADC structure.

He argued that this demonstrated transparency and equal participation in decision-making processes within the coalition.

The former governor further made headlines earlier on Friday after withdrawing from the Sokoto South Senatorial race and handing over the ticket to former Commissioner for Finance, Faruk Malami-Yabo, following consultations with party stakeholders over preparations for the 2027 elections.