The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has formally distanced itself from a political event linked to former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, as the Kaduna State Police Command launched an investigation into reports of gunfire and disorder during the gathering.

In a statement issued on Saturday, signed by Engr. Musa Idris, the ADC Kaduna State Publicity Secretary, the party rejected the so-called “Official Inauguration Ceremony of the Kaduna State APC, PDP, SDP, LP, NNPP to ADC Transition Committee,” saying neither the State Executive Committee nor stakeholders across Kaduna’s 23 local government areas were consulted.

“The ADC in Kaduna State has no knowledge of and is not part of this so-called inauguration,” the statement declared. “This is another clear manifestation of the divisive and destabilizing activities of Malam Nasir El-Rufai and his allies.”

Elder Patrick Ambut, the State Chairman of the ADC, further clarified that El-Rufai was not a registered member of the party and had failed to complete his registration, despite prior promises to do so. He accused the former governor of creating positions within the party structure that have no constitutional basis.

“Instead of fulfilling his promise, he has continued to parade himself as our leader while creating positions that have no basis in the ADC Constitution. This is fraudulent and unacceptable,” Ambut said.

The party reaffirmed its allegiance to the recognized executive leadership in Kaduna and warned members and the public to disregard the inauguration event, stressing that it had no legitimacy. “The so-called inauguration is illegitimate and of no consequence,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Police Command confirmed it had begun an investigation following reports of political violence at the event. DSP Mansir Hassan, the Police Public Relations Officer, said preliminary findings indicated that shots were fired by political gangsters, disrupting public peace.

“The Command has commenced an extensive investigation into the alleged political violence meeting hosted by former governor Nasir El-Rufai,” Hassan said.

“The gathering was held without prior notification to security agencies despite repeated warnings.”

He cautioned hotels and event centres against hosting unauthorized political gatherings, emphasizing that organizers and venue operators would be held accountable.

“Anyone found culpable, no matter how highly placed, will face the full weight of the law,” the Police Spokesperson added.

The ADC leadership reiterated its commitment to the rule of law and called on the party’s national leadership to intervene promptly to maintain unity and prevent further divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.