Kaduna ADC Ticket Dispute: Stakeholders Urge Ashiru To Suspend Running Mate Nomination

Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Southern Kaduna have urged former Kaduna State governorship aspirant, Isa Ashiru, to suspend the nomination of Barrister Emmanuel Kantyok as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election pending the National Working Committee’s (NWC) final decision on the party’s disputed governorship ticket.

The stakeholders made the call at a press conference in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, warning that naming a running mate before the resolution of the governorship ticket dispute could further deepen divisions within the party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its coordinator, Solomon Chindo, said the controversy over the outcome of the ADC governorship primary had created uncertainty and should be conclusively resolved by the party’s national leadership before any further political steps are taken.

He said suspending the running mate nomination until the NWC determines the authentic governorship candidate would promote fairness, strengthen internal democracy and foster unity within the party.

According to Chindo, proceeding with the nomination before the dispute is resolved could worsen the crisis and undermine efforts to build a united front for the 2027 polls.

He expressed confidence that the NWC would act in line with the party’s constitution and ensure justice for all parties involved.

“The dispute over the party’s governorship ticket arose after Isa Ashiru was initially declared winner of the Kaduna State governorship primary. However, the party’s Election Appeal Committee reviewed the exercise and overturned the result, declaring Shua’aibu Miqati the authentic winner after identifying alleged irregularities that affected the credibility and transparency of the primary.

“That decision has left both aspirants laying claim to the party’s governorship ticket, making it imperative for the National Working Committee to make a final determination before any running mate is nominated,” Chindo said.

Also speaking at the briefing, Isiyaka Zango commended the Election Appeal Committee for what he described as a transparent and credible review of the primary election.

Zango further said the committee demonstrated its commitment to fairness, accountability and justice, and urged party members across Kaduna State to remain calm while awaiting the decisions of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and other relevant organs of the party.

He said respecting the party’s internal democratic processes would strengthen the ADC and better position it for future electoral contests.

The stakeholders maintained that, based on the Appeal Committee’s verdict, Shua’aibu Miqati remains the legitimate winner of the governorship primary until any contrary decision is taken by the appropriate party authorities.

The group expressed concern over rising insecurity, inflation, unemployment and the increasing cost of living, saying the prevailing socio-economic situation continues to inflict severe hardship on Nigerians, particularly vulnerable communities.