Writing by Aminu Dalhatu;Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
Leadership crisis has erupted within the Zamfara State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with two factions laying claim to the party’s leadership in the state.
One of the factions, led by Malam Mohammed Mainasara, claimed that the National leadership of the party mandated his committee to oversee the conduct of the party’s congress in Zamfara.
Malam Mainasara said he was appointed as Chairman of the Congress Committee, alongside Ambassador Zubairu Yalwa as Secretary, among other members by the National leadership of the party.
Mainasara explained that, the committee had been in the state to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise.
Speaking to journalists in Gusau, he announced that a new State Executive Committee (EXCO) had emerged through a consensus arrangement endorsed by stakeholders.
According to him, Malam Shehu Maishanu Gulubba was elected as State Chairman, while Dr Ahmad Hashim emerged as Secretary, other officials include Jafar Aliyu as Youth Leader and Maryam Abdullahi as Women Leader among others.
In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman, Malam Shehu Maishanu, pledged to work diligently to strengthen the party and ensure its success across Zamfara State.
He emphasized that his leadership would focus on grassroots development and internal cohesion, rather than engaging in what he described as unproductive political consultations.
However, in a swift reaction, another faction led by Kabiru Garba Gusau rejected the outcome of the congress, insisting that he remains the legitimate Chairman of the party in the state.
Addressing journalists in Gusau, Kabiru Garba described the development as unfortunate and provocative, alleging that, certain individuals were sponsored by the other faction to destabilize the party for political advantage.
He further claimed that, any congress or consensus arrangement must involve all stakeholders and reflect collective agreement.
Kabiru Garba Gusau warned that, the faction he leads would not recognize the outcome of the purported congress and had already reported the matter to security agencies, including the Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), for necessary action.
He also announced the suspension and dismissal of all members who participated in the disputed meeting, stressing that, as the recognized Chairman, he has the constitutional authority to take such decisions.
The unfolding crisis is expected to deepen internal divisions within the party in Zamfara, raising concerns over its unity and preparedness ahead of future political activities.