The Yobe state chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has refuted allegations of an alliance with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. The party described the claims as false and misleading, accusing Prof. Muhammad Jawa of attempting to sow political discord within the opposition party.
Statement from ADC Leadership
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Damaturu, the Yobe State Chairman of ADC, Malam Umar Alhaji, declared: “The alleged publication credited to Jawa does not represent the position of the party leadership in the state.” The party also questioned Jawa’s political credibility and loyalty, noting that his past political activities have raised concerns among members.
Allegations of Divided Loyalty
The ADC highlighted that Jawa’s appointment as Special Assistant to Governor Mai Mala Buni, while retaining links with the ADC, has raised suspicions about divided loyalty between the ruling and opposition parties. Stakeholders expressed dissatisfaction with Jawa’s performance during his tenure as Chairman of the MMRR Committee, particularly regarding low membership registration across the state.
The party further accused Jawa of maintaining close ties with the “Obedient Movement,” which allegedly contributed to his defeat during the party’s last state congress, where he contested for the position of state chairman. “The outcome of that congress reflected the collective will of party members who had lost confidence in his leadership ambitions,” the statement read.
ADC Reaffirms Unity
The ADC maintained that the party in Yobe remains united and committed to providing credible opposition and democratic leadership. “At no time has the leadership aligned with the APC as falsely alleged,” the statement added. The party urged the public and supporters to disregard the publication, calling it “false, malicious and intended to create division within the party.”
Background of the Allegations
The reaction followed comments by Prof. Jawa during a stakeholders’ meeting in Damaturu on Saturday, where he claimed that ADC members across all 17 local government areas of Yobe had resolved to align with the APC ahead of the 2027 elections. Jawa, who is also the Founder and National Coordinator of the Arewa Strategic Implementation Group for Atiku, stated that the planned political realignment aimed at promoting stability and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
