The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has accused former Governor Nasir El-Rufai of attempting to infiltrate and hijack the party for his personal political ambitions, warning that any such moves would be “strongly resisted.”
At a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, party leaders expressed concerns over what they described as “clandestine activities” by El-Rufai, allegedly working through remnants of his political network within the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to gain control of the ADC in the state.
“We’re not anyone’s political tool”
Speaking on behalf of the party, Alhaji Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha said:
“The ADC will not serve as a willing tool in the hands of any individual. We are open to all Nigerians who believe in our values, but we will not allow our party to be turned into a political vehicle for anyone’s project.”
He further stressed that El-Rufai’s subversive moves were unacceptable and would be met with firm resistance.
Allegations of ADC faction creation
The party alleged that El-Rufai was trying to create a faction within the ADC by exploiting rival political interests and destabilising the internal structure of the party.
“These manoeuvres threaten the unity and internal democracy of the party. The ADC is not for sale. We are not an opportunistic platform for recycled politicians seeking new vehicles for relevance,” Mustapha warned.
Call for respect and restraint
The ADC urged El-Rufai to respect the democratic process, the party’s rules of engagement, and cease all attempts that could undermine the party’s integrity.
The Kaduna chapter reaffirmed its loyalty to the national leadership under Senator David Mark and pledged to remain focused on grassroots mobilisation and building a credible, people-oriented alternative to the ruling APC.
“We will not be distracted by external interference. We are focused on a just, inclusive, and progressive Nigeria,” the party concluded.
