INEC Recognizes My Leadership, Barde’s Claim Is False – Danladi Yau on Gombe ADC Chairmanship Dispute

The leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Gombe State has intensified, with Malam Danladi Yau asserting his position as the legitimate chairman of the party. Yau’s statement came in response to claims by Alhaji Auwal Abba Barde, who continues to present himself as the ADC chairman despite previous expulsions and suspensions.

The contention centers on the legitimacy of leadership within the ADC in Gombe State. Yau contends that he was appointed as the acting chairman by the ADC National Working Committee in December 2022 and has been recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In contrast, Barde, who was expelled from the party in 2022, continues to claim leadership, citing loyalty from certain state executives.

Yau maintains that Barde’s tenure as chairman expired in 2019 after serving two constitutionally permitted four-year terms. He argues that Barde’s continued claim to leadership is both illegal and detrimental to the party’s credibility. To strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, Yau announced plans to initiate fresh membership registration across all 114 wards in Gombe State. He emphasized that under his leadership, the ADC aims to provide Nigerians with an alternative to the current administration’s policies.

This leadership dispute within the ADC reflects broader political dynamics in Nigeria, where internal party conflicts can influence electoral outcomes. The resolution of this dispute may impact the ADC’s performance in future elections and its role in offering alternative political choices to the electorate.

The ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC in Gombe State highlights the challenges political parties face in maintaining internal cohesion and legitimacy. As the 2027 general elections approach, the ADC’s ability to resolve this conflict and present a unified front will be crucial in determining its influence in Nigerian politics.