El-Rufai’s ADC interference sparks backlash as Kaduna ADC leader Ahmed Mustapha warns against destabilising the party through illegitimate political moves
El-Rufai’s ADC interference has sparked fresh political tension as Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, a senior leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State, issued a stern warning to former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai over alleged attempts to hijack the party’s structure.
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Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, Mustapha accused the ex-governor of orchestrating “subversive alliances” and “illegitimate political manoeuvres” aimed at destabilising the party — despite not being a registered ADC member at the ward level.
“Let it be clearly understood that the Kaduna State Chapter of the ADC will not be a willing tool in the hands of any individual,” Mustapha declared. “We will not be beholden to interests that seek to undermine our collective vision.”
He alleged that El-Rufai, in collaboration with former allies from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and other political actors, has been secretly plotting to create a faction within the ADC, using the party as a personal political launchpad ahead of future elections.
Mustapha described the effort as a direct threat to the party’s unity, discipline, and democratic values.
“The ADC will not become a mirror of the destructive tendencies of the old parties that have stalled Nigeria’s progress,” he warned.
While reaffirming that the party remains open to new members who align with its ideals, Mustapha insisted that manipulation and political opportunism would not be tolerated.
He voiced the Kaduna chapter’s full support for the new national leadership under Senator David Mark, praising efforts to reposition the party as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s dominant political forces.
“Our mission is to offer Nigerians a people-focused alternative, and we will resist any attempt to derail that vision for selfish gain,” Mustapha said.
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As internal battles for party control intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, the warning highlights growing concern over elite-driven political infiltration and the potential destabilisation of smaller, reformist parties like the ADC.
