The suspension, which has already stirred political tension within and beyond the state, was announced on Monday during a press briefing convened by the factional chairman, Raji Zumo. The move is widely seen as a significant escalation of the lingering leadership crisis that has continued to trouble the party at both state and national levels.
Addressing journalists at the briefing, Zumo disclosed that the disciplinary action was not limited to Atiku alone. He confirmed that former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as well as the party’s Transition Committee Chairman, Sadiq Ibrahim, were also affected by the suspension.
According to the factional leadership, the decision followed what it described as extensive consultations among party executives in Adamawa State. Zumo emphasized that the action was taken in line with the party’s constitution and aimed at restoring order within its ranks.
In a video released shortly after the press conference, the factional chairman defended the decision, stressing that no member of the party, regardless of status or influence, is above its rules and regulations.
“Let it be clearly stated, no individual, regardless of his status or influence, is above the law or the constitution of the African Democratic Congress, as long as he is a card-carrying member of the party,” Zumo declared.
He further noted that the ADC was founded on principles of discipline, justice, and respect for the rule of law, adding that any deviation from these values would not be tolerated by the leadership.
Providing justification for the suspension, Zumo accused the affected leaders of engaging in activities capable of destabilizing the party. These, he said, include fostering disunity, creating parallel party structures, undermining lawful authority, and disregarding an existing court order.
“One, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Waziri Adamawa; Engineer David Baba Lawal, Vice Chairman, North East; Barrister Sadiq Ibrahim Dasin, Transition Committee Chairman, are hereby suspended,” he stated.
“This action is taken in the best interest of the party to restore order, protect its dignity, and reaffirm our commitment to democratic values,” Zumo added.
The development has further deepened the already widening cracks within the ADC, which has in recent months been plagued by internal disagreements and factional disputes at the national level.
A major point of contention within the party revolves around leadership claims, with a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe insisting on his position as the legitimate national chairman. This has led to parallel leadership structures and heightened uncertainty over the party’s direction.
The crisis has also been linked to disputes concerning the role of former Senate President, David Mark, in the party’s national leadership arrangement. His involvement has reportedly drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders, further complicating efforts to achieve unity within the party.
In an attempt to address the growing confusion, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier intervened by withdrawing recognition from one of the party’s factions. However, rather than resolving the dispute, the move appears to have intensified the struggle for control within the ADC.
Despite the escalating tensions, the faction believed to be aligned with David Mark has continued to project confidence, maintaining that the party remains stable and focused on its objectives. The group has also reaffirmed its readiness to proceed with its planned national convention scheduled for Tuesday, a move seen as crucial in determining the future leadership of the party.
Political observers say the suspension of a high-profile figure like Atiku Abubakar could have far-reaching implications for the ADC, particularly in Adamawa State where the former vice president commands significant influence and support.
There are growing concerns that the latest development could trigger a wave of reactions from loyalists of the suspended leaders, potentially leading to further divisions within the party. Analysts warn that if not properly managed, the crisis could weaken the ADC’s political standing ahead of future elections.
Supporters of Atiku and other affected leaders are yet to issue an official response as of the time of filing this report. However, insiders suggest that consultations are ongoing, and a formal reaction may be announced in the coming days.
The unfolding situation underscores the challenges facing political parties in maintaining internal cohesion, especially in the face of competing interests and leadership ambitions. For the ADC, the coming days are expected to be critical as it navigates one of the most turbulent periods in its history.
As the crisis continues to evolve, stakeholders within the party and the broader political landscape will be watching closely to see whether reconciliation efforts can be initiated or if the divisions will deepen further, potentially reshaping the party’s future.
