African Democratic Congress factional leader Nafiu Bala Gombe has dismissed claims that external political forces are bankrolling his court battle over the party's leadership, according to The Whistler Newspaper.
Bala clarified that his legal costs and personal security are funded by his own private business earnings alongside internal party revenues. The clarification comes amid allegations from a rival faction led by former Senate President David Mark that Bala is working with the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress to disrupt the opposition party ahead of the 2027 polls.
Addressing the accusations on Saturday, Bala stated that his camp depends primarily on membership fees and dues from party activities. He maintained that his private commercial ventures provide him with sufficient resources to manage his own affairs and court actions without outside support. He also defended his security setup, noting that he possesses the same right to personal protection as any other public figure.
Regarding the ongoing leadership litigation, Bala stressed that he approached the court to defend the constitution of the ADC rather than pursue personal interests. He noted that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and David Mark remain on the portal of the Independent National Electoral Commission because the electoral umpire likely awaits a certified true copy of the relevant judgment.
Bala dismissed suggestions to abandon the case following recent crowded party events in Sokoto and Kebbi, arguing that political crowds do not override legal procedures. “I went to court with only the Constitution. I told the world that if they had followed the right procedures, the court should rule in their favour. But if we were right, we should be given our rights,” Bala stated.
He also denied circulating claims that he had resigned his post, calling such documents false. Speaking on his ties with Atiku, Bala described the former vice president as an elder figure from his geopolitical zone, though he expressed regret that Atiku had not spoken with him directly during the crisis.
Bala added that aspirants within his faction have been instructed to proceed with preparations and campaigns for the 2027 elections. He urged opposing members to follow party registration rules at their ward levels and cautioned Nigerian youths against participating in political violence.
