The embattled Deputy National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Nafi’u Bala, has vowed to take every possible step to challenge the current leadership of the party, insisting that his mandate was “snatched.”

Bala made this declaration in Bauchi shortly after a zonal meeting with the North-East caucus of the party on Monday.

Speaking to journalists, Bala described publications announcing his suspension or dismissal as malicious and aimed at tarnishing his image.

He maintained that executives and members of his constituency were fully behind him.

“My ward executives received me warmly and confirmed to me that they were not involved in any publications alleging that I was suspended or dismissed.

“They told me they are 100 per cent with me, following the party constitution,” he said.

He argued that the ADC constitution is clear on the process of leadership transition, stressing that unless a national chairman resigns, no change of leadership can be effected.

“The party constitution states clearly that in the event of a national chairman’s resignation, the deputy national chairman automatically assumes leadership.

“Therefore, I remain the authentic national chairman of our great party,” Bala insisted.

He further alleged that some individuals parading themselves as leaders of the party were not even registered members of the ADC.

“We are going to mobilise our members across the North-East to rebuild the party.

“Those claiming to be leaders are misleading the public and do not represent the true spirit of the ADC,” he added.

Bala, who claimed to have served as acting national chairman for over three years, reiterated his determination to resist what he termed attempts to hijack the party’s structure.

On their part, the North-East caucus of the African Democratic Congress emphasised their endorsement to the leadership of Nafiu Bala as acting National Chairman of the party following the voluntary resignation of Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu.

While interacting with newsmen, the Zonal Publicity Secretary, Zayd Adamu reaffirmed the caucus’s loyalty to Bala, stressing that his leadership would ensure continuity and stability within the party.

Zayd said, “We unanimously endorse the voluntary resignation of Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu as National Chairman and support the seamless transition of leadership to Hon. Nafiu Bala, Deputy National Chairman, in an acting capacity.”

He dismissed claims that Bala had been expelled from the party, describing the announcement as “invalid, unlawful, and illegal.”

Adamu also issued guidelines for proposed coalition partners, urging them to register as bona fide ADC members at ward levels, respect established party structures, and comply with both the Electoral Act and the ADC constitution.

While condemning what it described as attempts by certain individuals to create confusion and disharmony within the ADC, the caucus called for unity among members.

“The ADC remains a progressive platform committed to democratic renewal and national transformation.

“We urge all members, supporters, and prospective allies to unite under our guiding principles as we work towards building a stronger, more prosperous, and equitable society for all Nigerians,” Adamu added.