Internal Dispute Emerges Within Sokoto ADC Ahead of 2027 Governorship Race

As the political landscape in Nigeria begins to shift toward the 2027 general elections, internal divisions have surfaced within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State. A faction of the party has publicly declared its opposition to Manir Muhammad Dan’Iya, instead reaffirming Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal as its chosen governorship candidate.

The Basis of the Leadership Dispute

The announcement was made by Umar Faruk, who identifies as the factional state chairman of the ADC in Sokoto. During a press briefing in Sokoto, Faruk addressed the implications of a recent Federal High Court judgment in Abuja, which reportedly touched upon the party’s leadership structure and the process of candidate nominations.

According to Faruk, the Sokoto chapter of the party recognizes the leadership structure headed by Nafiu Bala. It is under this specific leadership framework that Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal was selected as the party’s governorship candidate. Faruk stated clearly, “Consequently, Hon. Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal remains the duly nominated governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Sokoto State.”

Rejection of Alternative Claims

The factional leadership has explicitly distanced itself from Manir Muhammad Dan’Iya. Faruk emphasized that Dan’Iya is not recognized as the governorship candidate by the faction operating under the Nafiu Bala-led structure. The factional chairman argued that the legitimacy of party candidacies must be rooted in established legal and constitutional processes, rather than being subject to unilateral declarations or individual interests.

Calls for Party Unity

In light of the ongoing internal friction, the faction has issued a call for calm among its supporters and party members. The leadership is urging stakeholders to avoid any rhetoric or actions that could lead to confusion or threaten the unity of the ADC as the party prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle.

Faruk noted that the Sokoto chapter remains focused on its long-term strategic goals, which include strengthening the party’s internal structures and increasing grassroots engagement across the state. While the faction has asserted its position, it remains unclear how the broader party hierarchy or the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will ultimately reconcile these competing claims regarding the governorship ticket.

Conclusion

The situation within the Sokoto ADC highlights the complexities of internal party politics as the 2027 election cycle approaches. With competing factions citing court rulings to validate their respective candidates, the party faces a period of uncertainty. For now, the faction led by Umar Faruk remains committed to the candidacy of Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal, emphasizing that legal adherence will be the final arbiter in this dispute.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Daily Post Nigeria

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