ADC Crisis Deepens as Senator Ishaku Abbo Blames Betrayal, Power Struggles

Senator Ishaku Abbo has shed light on the ongoing leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress, attributing the turmoil to internal disagreements, broken agreements, and alleged external influence.

The situation intensified after the Independent National Electoral Commission announced that it would no longer recognise factions led by David Mark and Nafiu Bala. The electoral body cited a ruling by the Court of Appeal as well as ongoing legal disputes as the basis for its decision.

In a statement shared via his social media platform, Abbo explained that the conflict began following the resignation of Bala and members of the party’s National Working Committee, a move intended to pave the way for a new leadership arrangement within the party.

According to the senator, there was an initial understanding that positions within the party would be shared across geopolitical zones in order to accommodate both existing members and new entrants into the party structure. He claimed that Bala had been promised the role of National Vice Chairman for the North-East as part of this arrangement.

However, Abbo alleged that the agreement was later disregarded when the new leadership emerged. Instead of Bala, the position was reportedly given to Babachir David Lawal, a development he said triggered dissatisfaction and tension within the ranks of the party.

He further stated that Bala declined an alternative position offered to him, after which the dispute escalated. Abbo accused him of attempting to destabilise the party following the breakdown of the agreement.

The senator also suggested that the crisis may have been worsened by external political interests, alleging that certain influential figures, including a sitting governor and a former minister, are backing legal challenges against the party, although no specific names were mentioned.

Calling for calm, Abbo urged Bala to withdraw ongoing court cases and embrace dialogue in the interest of party unity. He also appealed to INEC to reconsider its stance, warning that the prolonged dispute could have wider political implications if left unresolved.

The crisis within the ADC continues to generate concern among party members and observers, as stakeholders seek a resolution that will restore stability and cohesion ahead of future political activities.