The Zamfara State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has split into two rival factions, each claiming to be the legitimate leadership of the party in the state.

One faction, led by Malam Mohammed Mainasara, insists it has the backing of the party’s national secretariat.

Mainasara said he was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, with Ambassador Zubairu Yalwa serving as Secretary, to oversee the party’s congress in the state.

He noted that the committee conducted a congress in Gusau, the state capital, which produced a new State Executive Committee (EXCO) through a consensus arrangement endorsed by stakeholders.

According to him, Malam Shehu Maishanu Gulubba emerged as State Chairman, while Dr. Ahmad Hashim was elected Secretary. Other officials include Jafar Aliyu as Youth Leader and Maryam Abdullahi as Women Leader.

In his acceptance speech, Gulubba pledged to strengthen the party, focusing on grassroots mobilisation and internal unity rather than what he described as unproductive political engagements.

However, a rival faction led by Kabiru Garba Gusau rejected the exercise, describing it as illegal and provocative. He maintained that he remains the authentic chairman of the party in the state.

Gusau alleged that the congress was orchestrated by individuals seeking to destabilise the party for political gain, insisting that any legitimate process must involve all stakeholders.

He added that his faction would not recognise the outcome of the congress and had reported the matter to security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS).

Gusau also said participants in the disputed meeting had been suspended and could face further disciplinary action, stressing that he has the constitutional authority to take such decisions as the recognised chairman.