The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Katsina State, Musa Usman Wamba Funtua, has reaffirmed that he remains the legitimate leader of the party in the state, dismissing claims by a rival faction as unlawful and driven by personal interests.
Wamba, who stated that he was elected in May 2022 and his tenure is still valid, made this known during an interview with KatsinaTimes on Monday at the party’s office located along Kano Road in Katsina metropolis.
He said anyone parading himself as the state chairman without following due party process is acting out of self-interest. This comes after a press conference held by another faction of the party under the leadership of Lawal Tukur Batagarawa on Sunday, April 5, 2026, where he declared himself as the state chairman.
Responding to this, Wamba described Batagarawa’s claim as baseless, stressing that due process must be followed, as there is no provision in the party’s constitution that allows such a declaration while a valid tenure is still ongoing.
“Were it not for our patience and respect for the rule of law, our supporters would have already taken legal action against them,” he said.
Wamba added that his faction deliberately avoided attending the press conference organized by the opposing group, describing it as biased and lacking proper structure.
He emphasized that since assuming office, he has remained committed to managing and developing the party without relent.
Providing further clarification on his leadership, Wamba said he played a key role in establishing and strengthening the ADC in Katsina State.
Although he was not the first chairman, he assumed leadership lawfully after the expiration of his predecessor’s tenure.
On the issue of political coalition, he noted that those who recognize his leadership remain united, while others are attempting to create disruption in a bid to seize control.
He also expressed concern over the irregular issuance of party membership cards, alleging that this is being done in some local government areas without the knowledge of ward leaders.
“We have continued to appeal for calm among our supporters because our goal is to see the party succeed in elections. Despite the pressure we face, we remain patient—so much so that some accuse us of being overly lenient,” he said.
Regarding calls for leadership restructuring, Wamba insisted on fairness, questioning why he should not be allowed to complete his tenure or even recontest when the time comes.
“If there is any wrongdoing on my part, it should be clearly stated,” he added.
He also rejected the idea of zoning the party’s leadership, warning that such a move could lead to division and hinder the party’s progress in the state.
According to him, attempts to conduct parallel party congresses would only plunge the party into deeper crisis and would not benefit its members.
While acknowledging the existence of internal disagreements within the party, Wamba reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and preventing conflict.
“Indeed, there are disagreements, but I have remained resolute in stopping my supporters from engaging in confrontation, even though some accuse me of siding with the opposing faction,” he said.
The ADC in Katsina State is currently facing internal leadership and structural disputes, raising concerns among stakeholders ahead of key party activities and the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
