Fresh cracks have deepened within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as party chieftain Rabiu Kwankwaso publicly accused factional chairman Nafiu Bala of undermining democracy and stalling efforts to resolve internal disputes.

Speaking in an interview, Kwankwaso expressed frustration over Bala’s failure to honour a scheduled peace meeting, describing the move as disappointing and counterproductive at a time when unity is critical for the party’s growth. He noted that despite waiting through the night, Bala did not show up, reinforcing concerns about deepening divisions within the party.

Kwankwaso, positioning himself as a senior figure within the movement, criticized Bala’s conduct, warning that such actions could damage both the party’s future and Nigeria’s broader democratic process. He framed the issue not just as an internal disagreement, but as a leadership and generational challenge, stressing the need for guidance and responsible political conduct.

The former Kano governor also escalated the matter beyond party structures, calling for the intervention of traditional and religious authorities, including the Emir of Gombe, as well as respected Islamic scholars, to help mediate the crisis.

His remarks highlight a growing power struggle within the ADC, as the party grapples with competing factions and leadership tensions amid its recent expansion. Analysts suggest that how the crisis is managed could significantly impact the party’s credibility and cohesion ahead of future political engagements.

With calls for reconciliation now extending to traditional institutions, the situation underscores the seriousness of the rift—and the urgency required to prevent it from escalating into a full-blown leadership breakdown.