Atiku Says Factional ADC Chairman Moves Around With Governor-Level Security Presence

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns that Nafiu Bala, a factional chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is now being accompanied by massive security convoys comparable to those typically reserved for a state governor.

Atiku alleged that the abrupt shift in Bala’s behavior and lifestyle was being financially backed by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The former vice president made the allegation during an interview with DW Hausa, where he also linked the ongoing crisis within the ADC to external interference.

According to Atiku, the ruling party is unsettled by the growing popularity of the ADC across the country.

He maintained that Nigerians were still joining the party in large numbers despite the internal crisis.

“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.

He added that certain interests had begun to interfere because they perceived the party’s growth as a political threat.

“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,” he stated.

The former vice president also questioned how Bala allegedly acquired heavy security and resources.

According to him, the development raises concerns about external support.

“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,” Atiku said.

“We have evidence. We know where he resides, and we observe how he moves around, almost like a governor.”

Atiku also questioned Bala’s recent movements, alleging that he had not returned to his hometown since the crisis within the party began.

“Since the beginning of this crisis, he has not travelled to his hometown. Why is he afraid?” he queried.

Despite the challenges facing the party, Atiku said the opposition remains undeterred by the recent decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to derecognise the ADC.

According to him, the crisis within the party is linked to outside interference aimed at weakening the opposition.

“Of course, we shouldn’t have to say it, but this is external interference. They are using someone because they see our party getting stronger every day, and they think it will be a challenge to them if we continue to grow,” he said.

The former vice president also noted that the party was increasingly attracting young people across the country.

He said the ADC had deliberately created opportunities for youths and women to participate actively in politics.

“Youth are dominating the party now. Whoever you see planning to contest, from a councillor to a state assembly, national assembly, and governor, they are all youth,” he said.

“We already said our party is for youth and women; we want to win and give it to them.”