The Sokoto State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reaffirmed Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal as its recognised governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections, rejecting Mannir Muhammad Dan-Iya’s claim to the party’s ticket.
The position followed the recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which, according to the party, nullified the processes that produced the David Mark-led national leadership of the ADC and candidates who emerged under that structure.
In a statement signed by its State Secretary, Yusuf Alkali, on Thursday, the party said its recognition of Zaki Tambuwal was based on his emergence under the leadership structure led by Nafiu Bala.
“Our position remains clear and consistent: the leadership of the ADC under Nafiu Bala represents the leadership structure under which our candidates emerged, and all candidates nominated under his leadership remain valid and recognised by our chapter,” the statement said.
The party specifically declared that Dan-Iya was not its recognised governorship candidate in Sokoto under the Nafiu Bala-led leadership.
“For the avoidance of doubt, our chapter stands firmly behind Hon. Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal and remains committed to protecting his political mandate as the party’s governorship candidate in Sokoto State,” it said.
The Sokoto ADC also congratulated Nafiu Bala on the court judgment, describing it as a victory for justice, democratic principles and the rule of law.
It said the judgment could help resolve the leadership crisis within the party and restore confidence among members committed to its constitution and democratic processes.
The party urged its members and supporters to remain calm and united, warning against confrontations, inflammatory statements and unauthorised announcements capable of undermining the ADC’s unity.
It also called on its grassroots supporters to intensify mobilisation and community engagement ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party maintained that political legitimacy should be based on lawful processes and constitutional provisions rather than personal interests, political influence or unilateral declarations.
“Once again, we unequivocally reaffirm Hon. Zaki Muhammad Tambuwal as the governorship candidate recognised by the Sokoto State Chapter of the African Democratic Congress under the Nafiu Bala-led leadership,” the statement added.
