By Amah
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Nigeria’s opposition politics took another dramatic twist on Thursday as former African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Youth Leader, Hon. Sultan Ahmed Bello, publicly admitted to participating in activities that contributed to the internal crisis rocking the party.
In a statement shared through his official X account on May 13, 2026, Bello confessed that he worked alongside his cousin, Nafi’u Bala Gombe, during a period of intense factional conflict that weakened the ADC and threatened its organizational stability.
The development comes at a critical moment for the African Democratic Congress, a party that has increasingly positioned itself as a rallying platform for anti-Tinubu political forces ahead of future electoral battles in Nigeria.
Bello acknowledged that his actions during the leadership tussle harmed the party’s democratic structure and fueled divisions within the opposition movement.
“What I did was wrong, and I fully acknowledge that,” he stated, while describing his public apology as part of a broader effort toward accountability, reconciliation, and political maturity.
The former youth leader further revealed that he had consulted several influential opposition figures before making his position public. According to him, prominent political leaders including Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Rotimi Amaechi, and Aminu Waziri Tambuwal accepted his apology and encouraged him to support peace and unity within the ADC.
Bello’s statement also signals a major political realignment within the opposition coalition. He formally declared support for the faction reportedly led by Senator David Mark, while distancing himself from Nafi’u Bala Gombe.
In a direct challenge to his former ally, Bello argued that Gombe no longer holds legitimate authority within the party, claiming he had already resigned from his position as Deputy National Chairman.
The endorsement of the David Mark-led bloc is expected to intensify the struggle for control within the ADC, especially as opposition leaders continue efforts to consolidate forces capable of challenging the ruling establishment in future elections.
Political observers believe Bello’s defection from the rival camp could alter internal power dynamics and influence ongoing negotiations among opposition stakeholders seeking a united political front.
The former ADC youth leader also hinted that more revelations and political moves may emerge in the coming days, promising to play an active role in resolving the lingering leadership crisis within the party.
The African Democratic Congress has in recent months faced mounting internal disputes over legitimacy, leadership structure, and coalition control, issues analysts say could shape the party’s relevance in Nigeria’s evolving opposition landscape.
