By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

The Sokoto State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as the “insulting and disgraceful public humiliation” of its State Chairman, Hon. Umar Faruk Muhammad, during the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on March 25, 2026.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Murtala Aliyu, the chapter said the incident involving Akibu Dalhatu, identified as the party’s interim National Financial Secretary, reflects indiscipline capable of undermining unity within the party at a critical time of political realignment.

According to the statement, the confrontation occurred during deliberations on resolving internal challenges within the party in Sokoto State. The disagreement reportedly began when Dalhatu proposed that reconciliation meetings involving Sokoto stakeholders be held in Abuja.

However, the State Chairman insisted that such meetings should take place in Sokoto to ensure broader participation by grassroots stakeholders across the local government areas.

The chapter maintained that the chairman’s position was aimed at promoting inclusiveness and transparency in addressing the party’s internal issues.

The situation allegedly escalated when Dalhatu verbally attacked the chairman, publicly insulting him before other NEC members. He was also accused of recording and circulating the incident on social media.

Describing the development as unacceptable, the Sokoto ADC leadership warned that such conduct threatens the culture of respect, discipline and political maturity expected of party officials.

“This behaviour poses a serious threat to the unity, stability and progress of the ADC in Sokoto State,” the statement said.

The chapter also questioned Dalhatu’s standing within the party, claiming he is not fully recognised as a legitimate member of the ADC structure in Sokoto and is linked to a faction within the party.

It further challenged him to provide evidence for his claim that the State Chairman serves as a Special Adviser to the APC-led government in Sokoto State.

While noting that the incident occurred in Abuja, the chapter said the matter would be addressed upon Dalhatu’s return to Sokoto, with appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken in line with party regulations.

The party also demanded an immediate retraction of the remarks and a public apology to the State Chairman, warning that failure to comply could result in legal action.

Reaffirming its commitment to unity and discipline, the Sokoto ADC chapter stressed that actions capable of tarnishing the party’s image would not be tolerated.

Observers say the incident reflects growing internal tensions within political parties as alignments and rivalries intensify ahead of future elections.