ADC Bauchi Expels Factional Chairman Suspends Ally Over Alleged ‘Impersonation’

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A fresh internal dispute has erupted within the Bauchi State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), exposing deep divisions among party stakeholders following disciplinary measures announced against two prominent members accused of acting outside recognised party authority.

The state leadership disclosed during a media interaction in Bauchi that decisive action had been taken to protect the party’s organisational stability. According to officials, Aminu Muhammad — described as a factional figure linked to a local government association — was expelled, while his associate, Babayo Musa Garba, received an indefinite suspension over alleged misconduct involving impersonation and unauthorised political activities.

Party representatives maintained that the decision was not sudden but followed earlier disciplinary procedures. Letters conveying the sanctions were reportedly issued earlier in January 2026, long before the latest controversy gained public attention. The leadership insisted the move was necessary to prevent confusion among members and supporters.

Party Leadership Rejects Alleged Takeover Attempt

During the briefing, the Assistant Publicity Secretary, Harsanu Guyaba, criticised a statement circulated by certain individuals claiming that the state chairman, Haruna Hassan, had been removed from office. He described the development as an attempt to create a parallel leadership structure capable of weakening party cohesion.

Guyaba argued that the individuals behind the announcement lacked constitutional authority, stressing that their actions were inconsistent with party rules. He warned that such activities risked undermining the growing influence of the ADC in Bauchi State.

The party further clarified that it does not recognise any internal body operating under the banner of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) within its structure. Officials emphasised that no external or informal group could legitimately speak or make decisions on behalf of the party hierarchy.

Appeal to Institutions and Supporters

ADC leaders urged members of the public, party loyalists, and political observers to disregard statements attributed to the sanctioned individuals. The leadership also formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies about the dispute, requesting vigilance against what it termed political impersonation.

According to party officials, maintaining discipline and protecting internal democracy remain priorities as preparations continue for future political activities in the state.

Counterclaims From Expelled Official

Reacting separately, Aminu Muhammad rejected claims of expulsion, insisting he remains a legitimate and longstanding member of the ADC. He argued that he had served the party faithfully for years and was never officially informed of any disciplinary decision.

Muhammad maintained that a group of local government party chairmen had earlier initiated disciplinary proceedings against State Chairman Haruna Hassan. He alleged that a formal invitation was sent to the chairman to appear before a committee investigating accusations of constitutional violations and anti-party conduct.

He claimed the chairman failed to honour the invitation despite being given sufficient time to respond.

Disciplinary Process Disputed

Providing his version of events, Muhammad said the committee relied on provisions within the party constitution to suspend the state chairman. According to him, the Deputy State Chairman was directed to temporarily oversee party affairs pending the organisation of a congress to resolve the leadership question.

He added that the affected chairman still retained the right to challenge the decision through an appeal process within a specified period, insisting that the actions taken were constitutional rather than rebellious.

Growing Signs of Internal Power Struggle

Political observers note that the conflicting narratives reveal an escalating struggle for legitimacy within the Bauchi ADC chapter. While the official leadership accuses dissenting members of impersonation and destabilisation, the opposing camp portrays its actions as a lawful disciplinary intervention.

Such disputes are not uncommon in party politics, especially in periods when internal structures are being reorganised ahead of electoral cycles. Analysts believe unresolved factional disagreements could influence grassroots mobilisation and voter confidence if not carefully managed.

Commentary and Analysis

The Bauchi ADC crisis reflects a broader pattern seen in many political parties where competing interpretations of constitutional authority trigger parallel leadership claims. At the centre of the disagreement lies a fundamental question: who possesses legitimate control of party structures at the local and state levels.

If reconciliation efforts fail, prolonged factional rivalry may weaken organisational unity and distract from policy engagement and electoral preparation. However, the controversy could also prompt clearer institutional reforms within the party, forcing stakeholders to redefine disciplinary procedures and communication channels.

Ultimately, how the national leadership and regulatory institutions respond may determine whether the dispute evolves into a lasting division or becomes an opportunity for internal restructuring and stronger governance.