Atiku Abubakar has accused Nafiu Bala, a factional chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), of travelling with a large security detail comparable to that of a state governor. Mr Abubakar stated that Mr Bala, who was previously a low-profile figure in the party, now moves with heavily armed escorts and official convoys. The former vice president linked the shift to interference by President Bola Tinubu's administration, alleging that the federal government is fuelling internal conflicts within opposition parties. Mr Abubakar claimed the support given to Mr Bala's faction undermines the ADC's unity and democratic process within the party. He insisted that his faction remains the legitimate leadership of the ADC, having won party elections in 2023. Mr Abubakar made the remarks during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday.
That Nafiu Bala now travels with a governor-level security detail suggests a significant shift in political patronage under the Tinubu administration. Atiku Abubakar's public accusation points to deeper tensions in how opposition parties are being navigated from the centre. If mid-tier politicians receive such protection without clear justification, it raises concerns about equity in security allocation across party lines. This dynamic could influence how smaller parties align themselves in the lead-up to future elections.
