The African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe has turned down the membership claim of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The party said the registration carried out for him at Jada 1 Ward in Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State did not follow its rules.
Dr. Christopher Okechukwu, who serves as the Director of Media and Public Affairs for the faction, said in a statement that the officials who handled Atiku’s registration were not recognised by the party’s national leadership.
According to him, the party had told Atiku several times to register with the proper ward executives in his area, but he had not done so.
Okechukwu said, “This registration was conducted through individuals who are not recognised by the ADC’s national headquarters and therefore lack the authority to register new members.”
He also described the move as a breach of the party’s constitution and stressed that the ADC cannot be used as a platform for personal goals.
He added, “We have consistently urged Mr. Abubakar to complete his registration with the duly constituted and authentic party executives in his locality, a step he has yet to take.”
Okechukwu said the party is worried that the action might be part of a wider plan to use the ADC while waiting for a possible reconciliation with the Peoples Democratic Party.
He urged Atiku to complete his membership properly by working with the recognised leadership in his local government. He noted that once this is done, Atiku will receive all the rights that the party gives its members.
The ADC is currently facing a leadership issue, and a case is ongoing at the Federal High Court to decide the rightful national leader. Okechukwu said this situation is important as the party considers new entrants and coalition partners.
He appealed for calm and understanding, explaining that the party is focused on fairness, respect for its structures, and full adherence to its rules. He added that the ADC wants unity and stability as it works through its internal matters.