ADC suspends newly elected Kaduna chairman, secretary

The Kaduna state chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has suspended its Chairman-elect, Hon. Ben Bako, and secretary, Hon. Adamu A. Dattijo, over alleged gross insubordination, breach of trust and anti-party activities.

The suspension followed an emergency meeting of the party’s State Executive Committee (SEC), which had a quorum of members from the 23 local government areas of the state.

In a statement issued by the state publicity secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party said the two officials were suspended with immediate effect, pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation.

The SEC alleged that Bako and Dattijo were mandated to represent the committee at campaign activities of the party’s governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Isa M. Ashiru, and report proceedings and important decisions back to the party.

It, however, accused the two officials of failing to make the required reports and of withholding what it described as vital information and correspondence from the SEC.

The party further alleged that the officials refused to transmit an official letter written by the SEC regarding the composition of the governorship campaign council to the appropriate quarters.

According to the statement, the SEC considered the alleged actions a violation of Article 22 of the ADC Constitution, 2022 as amended.

The party subsequently constituted a five-member disciplinary and investigative committee to probe the allegations and give the affected officials an opportunity to defend themselves.

The committee is headed by the state legal adviser, while the state suditor, state women leader and chief whip are members. The state deputy legal adviser will serve as secretary.

The committee was given 14 days to conclude its investigation and submit its report.

The SEC also directed the state deputy chairman and deputy decretary to oversee the party’s day-to-day activities during the period of the suspension.

The party said the decision was taken to uphold party supremacy, internal democracy, discipline and due process as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

It urged party members, supporters and the public to remain calm and law-abiding.