From Ruth Amos, Kaduna
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State is facing mounting internal challenges, following its recently concluded primary elections, with no fewer than 49 disputes reportedly arising from various contests across the state.
The crisis, which has generated widespread concern among party members and supporters, centres on allegations of voter exclusion, hijacked election materials, irregularities in vote collation, and the declaration of disputed results.
Particularly contentious is the party’s governorship primary, where conflicting declarations reportedly named both Isa Ashiru and Shuaibu Idris Mikati as winners at different stages of the process.
The development has deepened uncertainty within the opposition party, and sparked protests from aggrieved aspirants, some of whom described the exercise as flawed and lacking transparency.
Political observers warn that the dispute could trigger prolonged legal and political battles if the party leadership fails to urgently address the grievances and reconcile aggrieved stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amid the growing tension, supporters of Mallam Jafaru Sani have intensified calls for the party to embrace what they describe as a more inclusive and credible reconciliation process.
Sani, who reportedly emerged second in the disputed governorship primary and currently serves as the ADC National Vice Chairman for the North West, has been identified by many party faithful as a key figure capable of restoring unity within the party.
His supporters cite his experience in public service, longstanding commitment to the party, and widespread acceptance across Kaduna State’s three senatorial zones and 23 local government areas as factors that position him as a consensus-building leader.
They also point to his decision to challenge the outcome of the governorship primary in court as evidence of his commitment to protecting internal democracy and ensuring adherence to due process within the party.
Beyond the governorship race, disputes have also emerged from several state and federal constituency primaries in areas, including Kaduna South, Kaduna North, Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Ikara, and Kubau.
Some aspirants and party members have alleged that they were excluded from the process and that candidates were imposed without due consultation.
Observers further note that the absence of the party’s prominent leader and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, from active political engagement during the period may have contributed to the challenges facing the party’s internal management.
Stakeholders have, therefore, called on the ADC national leadership to take swift and impartial steps to resolve the disputes, restore confidence among members, and safeguard the credibility of the party’s nomination process.
Political analysts caution that unless the lingering grievances are addressed promptly, the party risks internal divisions that could weaken its chances in the 2027 elections and erode support among the electorate in Kaduna State.