Leadership Tussle Rocks Bauchi ADC as Haruna Denies Removal

By Ahmed Ahmed

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Chairman in Bauchi State Alhaji Hassan Haruna, has insisted that he remains the party’s substantive leader, alleging that attempts to undermine his authority stem from his refusal to be manipulated by certain interests within the party.

It could be recalled that the state chapter of the ADC has been embroiled in a leadership crisis, with the deputy chairman, Mohammed Tabla, and some party members claiming that Haruna had been suspended for what is called anti party activities.

Speaking with journalists on Wednesday in Bauchi, Haruna dismissed the suspension claim, maintaining that the party structure in the state had not followed due process to remove him from office.

“As far as I know, ADC in Bauchi State is one, and I am the substantive chairman. The person who broke the gate of the party secretariat to gain access cannot be compared with someone who holds the legitimate key and authority of the office,” he said.

Haruna urged party members to remain calm, questioning how a few local government chairmen could remove a state chairman without the involvement and approval of the State Working Committee.

He reaffirmed that the party in Bauchi remained united under his leadership and noted that the state chapter only recognised directives from the national leadership of the ADC, led by Sen. David Mark.

According to him, the individual laying claim to the chairmanship position remains the suspended vice chairman of the party and lacks the constitutional backing to assume leadership.

The ADC chairman called on members to uphold party discipline and constitutional order, stressing that internal disputes should be resolved through lawful and recognised party mechanisms to preserve unity ahead of future political activities in