The internal crisis within the African Democratic Congress took a new turn on Tuesday as factional leader, Nafiu Bala Gombe, responded strongly to remarks by former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The ADC, which has recently attracted opposition figures strategising ahead of the 2027 general elections, has been battling a leadership dispute that continues to divide its ranks.
At the centre of the conflict are rival camps led by Bala and another aligned with former Senate President, David Mark, both asserting control over the party’s structure.
Kwankwaso, who recently pitched his tent with the party, had criticised Bala for failing to honour an invitation meant to address the leadership crisis.
During a media interview, the former governor reportedly downplayed Bala’s political standing, describing him as young and suggesting he ignored an opportunity for mentorship.
In his reaction, Bala rejected the claims about his age and accused Kwankwaso of pursuing interests not aligned with the party, likening his actions to that of an outsider.
He insisted that older politicians should allow younger members to take the lead in shaping the party’s future while they assume advisory roles.
Bala also maintained that he is 46 years old and not 35 as alleged, stressing that he would not be intimidated in the ongoing struggle for leadership within the party.
