Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused Nafiu Bala, the party’s factional chairman, of acting against democratic principles.
In an interview with DCL Hausa on Tuesday, Kwankwaso revealed that he had invited Bala for a meeting aimed at resolving the party’s crisis amicably, but Bala failed to show up.
“We scheduled to meet yesterday, but despite waiting until morning, he did not come. I had been warned he wouldn’t show up, and his absence is deeply disappointing. I want to pass my message through you now, so that if you meet him, you can deliver it on my behalf,” Kwankwaso said.
He added, “Given the current situation in our country, our party and our democracy cannot afford someone who behaves like the lizard at the mouth of the water pot—blocking progress. As a leader of this movement in Nigeria, I believed that when I invited him, he would honour the request so I could advise him, as a father would a son.”
Kwankwaso noted that Bala was born in 1990 and still needs guidance as a youth. “His current actions are not only harmful to his own future, but also to the ADC and Nigerian democracy as a whole.”
He further warned, “He must recognise that millions have registered with our party. What was once a small party has grown significantly because prominent leaders joined with a mission to do what is right for this country. If he continues to stand in the way of that progress, it will become a very serious problem for him.”
The senator also called on the Emir of Gombe, other traditional rulers, and Islamic scholars (Ulamas) to intervene in the dispute.
“This is a serious matter, and he must realise his mistakes so we can resolve it. I offer this advice freely because I know it is for everyone’s benefit,” Kwankwaso concluded.