2026

Mustapha Nuhu Wali, mni The unfolding crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is more than just an internal party dispute; it is a reflection of the fragile foundation upon which much of Nigeria’s party politics rests. Beneath the surface of leadership disagreements lies a deeper concern, one that touches directly on the strength of democratic institutions and the future of opposition politics in the country. What began as a contest over leadership legitimacy has steadily evolved into a broader struggle involving constitutional interpretation, institutional oversight, and competing political narratives. This progression is not unusual in Nigeria’s political space, but its implications are far-reaching. It exposes not only internal divisions within the party but also systemic weaknesses that continue to undermine political organisations across the board. At the heart of the ADC crisis are conflicting claims. One faction insists that recent leadership changes violated the party’s constitution, while another hints at possible external interference aimed at destabilising the party. Though neither claim has been conclusively established, their persistence underscores a critical issue, the urgent need to protect and strengthen internal party democracy. A political party’s constitution is its moral and legal compass. In the case of the ADC, as with other parties, it clearly outlines procedures for leadership emergence, congresses, and dispute resolution. When these procedures are bypassed or contested, the legitimacy of leadership becomes questionable, and the party risks descending into prolonged instability. Membership may be open, but leadership must be earned through due process, anything short of that erodes confidence. Read Also: Food Waivers Threaten Northern Agriculture, Says Wali Wali Hosts Annual Maulud, Calls for Unity, Prayers and Emulation of Prophet’s Virtues 15% Ad-Valorem Import Duty on Petrol and Diesel: Balancing Protectionism and Public Interest The role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in this situation cannot be ignored. As the statutory regulator, INEC’s decisions are expected to be guided by law and documentary compliance. However, legality alone is often insufficient in politically sensitive matters. Public trust hinges not just on what is lawful, but on what is perceived as fair and inclusive. Where stakeholders feel excluded or sidelined, even the most legally sound decisions can generate suspicion and controversy. Equally troubling is the reported plan by a faction allegedly de-recognised to proceed with its own convention despite ongoing legal disputes. Such actions, while perhaps driven by urgency or political calculation, risk deepening divisions and compounding uncertainty. Conventions conducted under disputed authority may ultimately be rendered invalid, especially if they lack recognition by INEC or are overturned by the courts. In such scenarios, the party does not move forward; it becomes further entangled in its own contradictions. The increasing resort to litigation adds yet another layer of complexity. While the courts remain a legitimate avenue for resolving disputes, overreliance on legal battles often delays resolution and weakens cohesion. By the time judgments are delivered, the political damage may already be done, leaving parties fractured and electorally disadvantaged. There are also murmurs of external interference in the crisis, though these remain unproven. Still, their recurrence points to a broader vulnerability within political parties, a lack of internal cohesion strong enough to withstand both internal disagreements and external pressures. A united party can manage dissent; a divided one becomes susceptible to manipulation. Beyond the internal dynamics of the ADC lies a more pressing national concern, the health of Nigeria’s democracy. A vibrant democratic system depends on balance. It requires not only a functioning ruling party but also a credible, organised, and effective opposition capable of providing alternatives, holding power to account, and representing diverse interests. When opposition parties are weakened by internal crises, parallel structures, and unresolved disputes, their capacity to perform these roles is significantly diminished. The electorate is left with fewer credible choices, and democratic competition is weakened. In the long run, this imbalance does not favour the system; it undermines it. The ADC crisis, therefore, should not be viewed in isolation. It is a cautionary tale for political actors across Nigeria. It highlights the urgent need for parties to adhere strictly to their constitutions, strengthen internal dispute resolution mechanisms, and prioritise unity over factional advantage. At the same time, institutions like INEC must continue to uphold not only the letter of the law but also the spirit of fairness and transparency. Trust in democratic processes depends on both. As events continue to unfold, what is required most is restraint, dialogue, and a firm commitment to constitutional order. Leadership disputes must be resolved within the framework of the law, conventions must be conducted with legitimacy, and institutional decisions must inspire confidence rather than controversy. Ultimately, the strength of any political party lies in the integrity of its processes, while the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the existence of stable, credible, and effective opposition platforms capable of maintaining the balance upon which democracy thrives. Comrade Mustapha Nuhu Wali, mni, is a veteran labour leader 

Nearly two decades after his passing, the legacy of Ja’afar Mahmud Adam continues to resonate across northern Nigeria, where he remains one of the most influential Islamic scholars of his time. Born on February 12, 1960, in Daura, Sheikh Ja’afar’s early life was shaped by a strong commitment to Islamic learning. His educational journey took him from Kano to the prestigious Islamic University of Madinah, where he graduated in 1993, laying the foundation for a career that would leave a lasting imprint on religious scholarship. As a prominent figure within the Jama’at Izalat al Bid’a Wa Iqamat as Sunna (Izala), he became widely known for advocating a return to the teachings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). His sermons, often direct and uncompromising, earned him both admiration and criticism, but firmly established him as a voice of reform. Read Also: Rimi’s Education Legacy Linked to Late Abdulhamid Hassan’s Reforms Kidnapped Nigerians Now Left to Die in Captivity as Poverty Deepens – Islamic Cleric 2025 in Memoriam: Nigerians and Global Icons Who Left a Lasting Legacy One of the defining aspects of his influence was his annual Ramadan Tafsir in Maiduguri, where thousands gathered to listen to his interpretation of the Qur’an. Through these sessions and his teachings, he inspired a generation of followers committed to understanding Islam through scholarship and discipline. Beyond preaching, Sheikh Ja’afar contributed to Islamic education through initiatives such as the establishment of the Usman Bin Affan Centre, reflecting his dedication to nurturing knowledge and guiding communities. His life, however, was tragically cut short on April 13, 2007, when he was assassinated while leading the Subh prayer in Kano. The circumstances surrounding his death remain a subject of debate, with various accounts attributing it to extremist elements or other interests. Yet, beyond the tragedy of his death, Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam is remembered for his steadfastness, courage, and commitment to truth as he understood it. His teachings continue to circulate widely, and his influence endures in mosques, learning circles, and among scholars across the region. In memory, he stands not only as a preacher, but as a symbol of conviction and intellectual engagement in the pursuit of faith.