A factional leader of the African Democratic Congress, Nafiu Bala Gombe, has responded strongly to comments made by Rabiu Kwankwaso over the ongoing crisis in the party.

Reports say the ADC, which is currently home to several opposition figures planning to challenge Bola Tinubu in 2027, has been facing serious internal leadership problems.

The crisis within the party has continued to grow, with Bala’s group and another faction led by David Mark both claiming to be in control of the party.

Kwankwaso, who recently joined the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, had earlier complained that Bala refused to attend a meeting meant to settle the disagreement within the party.

Speaking in an interview, Kwankwaso also mentioned Bala’s age, claiming he is 35, and suggested that the younger politician ignored advice that could have helped resolve the issue.

In his reaction, Bala rejected the claim about his age and accused Kwankwaso of behaving like a supporter of the ruling party.

He also warned Kwankwaso to stay out of the party’s leadership issues, adding that older politicians should step back and allow younger members to lead the party.

Bala clarified that he is 46 years old, not 35 as claimed, and insisted that age should not be used to look down on him.

He stressed that even if he were younger, Kwankwaso has no right to disrespect him, noting that many current leaders took on big responsibilities at a young age.

Bala further advised older politicians to give the younger generation the same chances they had in the past, suggesting they should take on advisory roles instead of leading.

He also recalled events from the 2023 elections, saying that Atiku Abubakar and other northern leaders once tried to convince Kwankwaso to step down for political unity, but he refused.

Bala concluded by saying that since Kwankwaso did not step down at that time, he has no right to pressure or lecture him now, insisting that he will not allow anyone to intimidate him.