ADC chair in Adamawa resigns as Fintiri’s aide

Shehu Kambile, chair of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Adamawa, has resigned from his position as special assistant to Ahmadu Fintiri, governor of the state.

Kambile announced his resignation on Wednesday in a statement issued in Yola.

He said the decision was part of a broader strategy to focus on strengthening the ADC as the state’s leading opposition party.

“My appointment was facilitated through the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) framework, designed to foster national cohesion,” he said.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Governor Fintiri but have to step aside and focus on my primary mandate — building a robust and effective opposition.

“We crave for an opposition that can provide a credible alternative for the people.”

Kambile commended Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, for his efforts in “promoting inclusive and democratic engagement” within the ADC.

He also urged members of the party to unite and work collectively towards its growth and success.

Fintiri was elected governor on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Reacting to the development, Abubakar praised Kambile for reaffirming his commitment to the ADC.

“I commend the state chairman of the Adamawa ADC, Shehu Yohanna, for reaffirming his commitment to the ADC,” Abubakar said in a post.

“His resignation from the state government, though under an IPAC-based arrangement, underscores his steadfastness for the journey ahead in restoring true democracy in our country.

“I urge him to work with the chairman of the state transition leadership team, Sadiq Dasin, and all stakeholders for the success of our party.”

The Adamawa chapter of the ADC has splintered into three factions, each claiming to hold the legitimate chairmanship of the party in the state.

The division has pitted loyalists of Babachir Lawal, former secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), against those of Aishatu Binani, a former senator, while the incumbent chairman, Yohanna, insists that he remains the substantive leader of the party.

Lawal’s bloc has endorsed Sadiq Dasin as chairman, while Binani’s group has thrown its weight behind Saidu Komsiri. Yohanna, however, maintains that he is the duly recognised chairman of the Adamawa ADC.

The former vice-president had declared his support for the Dasin-led group.