A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Nafiu Bala Gombe has raised concerns over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent enrolment in the party, questioning the legitimacy of his registration.
The group said Atiku’s registration at Jada 1 Ward in Jada Local Government Area was not conducted by officials recognised by the ADC’s national headquarters. The faction claims the process bypassed duly constituted ward executives, a step Atiku has yet to complete.
Christopher O. Okechukwu, Director of Media and Public Affairs for the faction, described the registration as inconsistent with the ADC’s constitution and internal procedures. He emphasised that the individuals involved lacked proper authority to enrol new members and called on Atiku to regularise his membership through the officially recognised party leadership in his area.
“The ADC is a movement for democratic renewal, not a platform for individual ambition,” Okechukwu said. He warned that attempts to use the party without following due process could reflect a broader strategy to maintain political relevance while negotiating a possible return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The faction also highlighted the ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC, with a case pending at the Federal High Court over David Mark’s leadership. They stressed that any consideration of Atiku or his coalition partners must respect existing party structures.
Despite the faction’s objections, Atiku confirmed his ADC membership on Monday, sharing a photo of himself holding his membership card on X with the caption, “It’s official.” This move comes after his resignation from the PDP in July amid prolonged internal crises.
The development positions Atiku within a coalition-backed ADC as he gears up for potential involvement in the 2027 elections.