Says consultations ongoing as legal battles deepen uncertainty within party

By Ifeoma Onyekachi

Former presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has dismissed reports that he has defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that no final decision has been taken regarding his political future despite mounting internal challenges within the party.

In a statement issued late Saturday, the former Kano State governor acknowledged that while he remains in the ADC, the option of leaving the party is under consideration. He disclosed that he has initiated consultations with leaders across political platforms, including the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

Kwankwaso also clarified that he has neither declared any intention to contest for president nor endorsed any aspirant, describing ongoing speculations as premature.

Addressing the crisis within the ADC, he pointed to recent court rulings that have complicated the party’s standing. He noted that while the Supreme Court affirmed the legitimacy of the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC), it also referred the matter back to a lower court, prolonging the dispute. He further cited a Federal High Court ruling that invalidated the party’s recent convention, alongside an application by the Attorney General of the Federation seeking the party’s deregistration.

“The developments have left the party in a precarious position,” he said, adding that the situation mirrors the legal uncertainties that forced his earlier exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Kwankwaso emphasised that ongoing consultations are aimed at safeguarding democratic interests and determining the most viable political pathway for him and his associates. He assured that a formal decision would be communicated in due course.

Reflecting on his political trajectory, Kwankwaso reiterated his commitment to party unity and national interest, citing his support for Muhammadu Buhari after the 2014 APC presidential primary and his role in backing Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 elections.

He also explained that his absence from two recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings was due to prior personal commitments, noting that he had duly informed party leadership.

“We shall continue to engage constructively at all levels,” he said. “Any definitive position on our political direction will be communicated formally through official channels at the appropriate time.”