Fresh drama is unfolding within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after a faction of the party rejected former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s newly announced membership.

Atiku had posted a photo on his X handle on Monday showing him holding his ADC membership card, declaring, “It’s official.” His move comes months after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which had been battling a prolonged internal crisis.

But shortly after Atiku’s announcement, the Nafiu Bala Gombe-led faction of the ADC released a statement insisting that the former Vice President is not yet a recognised member of the party.

According to the group, Atiku’s registration at the Jada 1 Ward in Adamawa State was carried out by individuals who are not authorised by the party’s national headquarters. The faction said it has repeatedly advised Atiku to register through the authentic ward executives in his locality—something he has allegedly failed to do.

Christopher O. Okechukwu, the ADC’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, described the development as a violation of the party’s constitution and established procedures.

He said:
“This registration was conducted by persons not recognised by the ADC National Headquarters and therefore lack the authority to register new members.”

The faction also expressed concern that Atiku’s actions may be part of a strategy to use the ADC as a temporary political shelter while awaiting possible reconciliation with the PDP—a pattern they claim to have seen before.

The party emphasised that the ADC is not a platform for “personal ambition” but a movement committed to democratic renewal, transparency, and respect for internal structures.

The situation is further complicated by the ongoing leadership tussle within the ADC. A case is currently pending in the Federal High Court over the legitimacy of David Mark’s leadership, creating uncertainty within the party’s hierarchy.

Despite the tensions, the faction said Atiku is still welcome—but only if he completes his registration properly with the officially recognised ward executives. Once done, he will be entitled to all rights and privileges under the ADC constitution.

For now, the ADC leadership is calling for calm and urging Atiku and his allies to follow due process in order to maintain unity within the party.