The Nafiu Bala faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has on Thursday suspended 15 of its prominent members.
The suspended members included its former National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu, over alleged anti-party activities, deepening the leadership crisis within the opposition party.
They were suspended for six months including Nwosu, Balarabe Rufai, Ibrahim Mani, Dr Bamidele Ajadi, Dr Chike Okogwu, Anayo Arinze, Kenneth Gbandi, Said Abdullahi, Ms Hauwa Musa, Nkem Ukandu, Peters Oyewole, Dr Peter Edeh, Prince Festus Igbinoba and Razak Eyiwuawi.
According to a statement issued in Abuja, the decision was taken at the NWC’s regular meeting.
Among other things, Bala accused the suspended members of actions capable of undermining party cohesion and stability.
He said, “The NWC has observed that some party members have engaged in anti-party activities with coalition members, causing disaffection among party members and disrupting the peaceful coexistence of party faithful and efficient conduct of party business.
“As a result, the NWC has collectively approved the suspension of the following members for six (6) months: Pursuant to article 15(a) of the party constitution.
The factional leadership also disowned the ongoing congresses allegedly being organised by some members across the states.
“The NWC has noted that certain unauthorised individuals are organising special Ward, Local Government, and State Congresses, claiming to act on behalf of the party. The NWC declares these congresses null, void, and of no effect whatsoever.
“All party members and the public are directed to ignore and discard the proceedings and outcomes of these unauthorised congresses.”
The meeting approved a raft of new appointments which according to the NWC, is aimed at strengthening party administration.
Those appointed included the Kogi State federal lawmaker, Leke Abejide, who was named Chairman, Board of Patrons, by virtue of his status as a ranking elected official of the party.
Others appointed include Bala Sani as Chief of Staff to the National Chairman; Special Adviser on Strategic Communication, Abimiku Monday; Director of Youth Mobilisation, Muhammad Aboki; Director of Finance, Bello Shehu; and Administrative Secretary, Rabiu Mohammed.
“All appointees are to assume duties immediately and are expected to collect their appointment letters and further instructions at the party’s National Headquarters,” the statement said.
The NWC also constituted a four-member committee to conduct the Osun State governorship primary election, chaired by Dr Rufus Ikanmi, Henry Moses as Secretary, and Muhammad Ibrahim and Alhaji Ibrahim Saleh Katagum as members.
Reiterating its stance on party discipline and order, Gombe said, “All official announcements regarding party congresses will be made through the ADC’s authorised communication channels.
“All appointments take immediate effect, and the appointees are expected to discharge their duties with utmost dedication and professionalism.”
