Jigawa ADC Candidate Angry Over Change in Running Mate

Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi and 11 others are now on the final list of governorship candidates in Jigawa. This list was released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Saturday.

One of the main challengers, Sabo Nakudu from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is not happy about the change in his running mate. He had submitted Aminu Ibrahim's name to INEC, but instead, Nasiru Kaugama was named as his running mate on the official list.

This change surprised Mr Nakudu and his supporters. They claim a faction within the party is behind the change.

The situation has caused problems in the opposition party. Members are now blaming each other at a time when they should be focusing on their campaign efforts.

INEC did not explain why Mr Ibrahim was replaced. But some sources say the change might be linked to a decision by the party's national headquarters to satisfy a rival faction.

This rival faction accused Mr Nakudu of taking control of the ADC structure after he switched from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The ADC issues in Jigawa started during the governorship primary. The primary had four-term House of Representatives member Adamu Jumbo competing against Mr Nakudu, who just joined from the ruling APC.

After the primary election, Mr Jumbo filed a complaint with the party’s election appeal committee. He claimed there were many irregularities, intimidation, and interference from party leaders.

His supporters believe Mr Nakudu’s rise is a takeover by wealthy newcomers. On the other hand, Mr Nakudu’s group called his opponents bitter losers.

A leaked document showed a proposed agreement to share power 60:40 between the two groups. This agreement included giving up the deputy governorship position and promising important cabinet roles to resolve the conflict.

Despite these talks and help from the party's leadership, the disagreement over the running mate position is still not settled. This issue continues to create divisions within the party.