By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State has issued a strong clarification over what it described as persistent misrepresentation of the party’s leadership in the state.

In a statement signed by the State Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Umar, on behalf of the state leadership, the party declared that Alhaji Bello Isiyaku (Keegan) is not the recognised Chairman of the ADC in Sokoto State.

The party said Isiyaku ceased to be chairman in September 2022 following disciplinary action taken at the national level, after he allegedly sought the 2023 governorship ticket under the party without clearance and in violation of party procedures and constitutional provisions.

According to the ADC, his suspension led to the constitution of a new leadership structure, which was duly ratified by the national headquarters, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of party activities in the state.

The statement stressed that the legitimate chairman of the party in Sokoto has been in office since the commencement of the transition process, even before the official announcement to the public.

It also revealed that the current chairman, who is a serving member of the ADC Board of Trustees (BoT), represented Sokoto State at the emergency mini-convention held in Zaria on September 22, 2022.

At the convention, key decisions were taken, including the validation and reaffirmation of Chief Ralph Nwosu as national leader. The convention was said to have received legal recognition from the electoral umpire and the courts, granting Nwosu a one-year caretaker mandate.

The statement added that at the end of the tenure, leadership was formally handed over to the current Interim National Chairman, Senator David Mark, to ensure continuity and institutional stability.

The Sokoto ADC leadership warned Alhaji Bello Isiyaku to immediately desist from parading himself as the party’s chairman or issuing statements on behalf of the party.

It also cautioned media organisations and political actors against providing him a platform, warning that any collaboration that enables the unauthorised use of the ADC’s name would be considered an act of complicity.

The party concluded by reaffirming that the ADC in Sokoto State remains united, legally constituted and fully aligned with national directives, insisting it will no longer tolerate the misuse of its identity or authority by any individual.