Adamawa ADC Congress Proceeds Despite Court Order, Babachir Lawal Loyalists Claim Victory
In a dramatic development within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Adamawa State, a faction loyal to former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has emerged victorious in parallel state, local government, and ward congresses held over the weekend, despite a court order suspending the exercise.
The congresses, conducted amid deep internal divisions, resulted in the election of a new state executive committee led by Sadiq Ibrahim Dasin as State Chairman. Other key positions filled include Muhammad Arabi Mustapha as State Organising Secretary, Muhammad Umar U.J. Jada as State Youth Leader, and Hyellagiziya Fakuta Naiwa as Treasurer.
The process unfolded in defiance of a High Court ruling in Yola, which had ordered the suspension of the congresses. The order followed an application by Yohana Shehu, the incumbent state chairman aligned with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who argued that the organising committee—reportedly linked to the Lawal faction—had failed to consult him or his executive before proceeding.
Organisers of the weekend exercise claimed they were unaware of the court injunction, though sources close to the Atiku camp maintain the notice was served. The parallel congresses highlight the escalating rivalry between the two prominent political figures and their respective supporters within the party.
The newly elected state executive also includes Mohammed Alhaji Adamu as Assistant Financial Secretary, Teneke Atimo Medan as State Assistant Youth Leader (South), Anas Muhammad (Yawudima) as Deputy Youth Leader, Hon. Rahab Nyayeba Audi as Woman Leader, Sani Hassan as Deputy Chief Whip, and Zainab Abubakar as Deputy Women Leader.
Political analysts say the outcome could deepen the existing schism within the Adamawa ADC and raise questions about the party’s unity ahead of future electoral contests. The faction aligned with Atiku Abubakar is expected to challenge the legitimacy of the congresses in court, potentially setting the stage for further legal battles.
The situation underscores the fragility of internal party cohesion in Nigeria’s opposition politics, particularly where influential political figures vie for control. With both sides now claiming legitimacy, the ADC in Adamawa faces an uncertain path forward as it navigates competing claims to leadership and the risk of further fragmentation.
