Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar says vested interests are responsible for the crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking in an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku alleged that as a result of its growing popularity, ADC had become a target.
He said regardless of the crisis, Nigerians still have faith in the party and have continued to show solidarity for it.
“So far, people from all states are still joining the party. Nothing has happened to suggest that Nigerians are withdrawing their support. Not at all,” he said.
Although he did not mention any name, Atiku said an official of the party, suspected to be Nafiu Bala, is enjoying unusual privileges suggestive of outside backing.
“What is happening is external interference. Some individuals have been bought over and used because certain interests have noticed that the party is gaining momentum by the day. They see this growth as a threat if it continues.”
“How can someone who claimed to be the party chairman suddenly be provided with security, vehicles and a residence? It clearly points to outside influence. We have evidence. We know where he resides and we observe how he moves around, almost like a governor,” he said.
He also questioned the factional chairman’s movements since the crisis began.
“Since the beginning of this crisis, he has not travelled to his hometown. Why is he afraid?” he asked.
The crisis in the party reached its height when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) removed the names of David Mark, National Chairman, and Rauf Argebesola, National Secretary of the party, from its portal.