As part of efforts to uphold gender inclusion and protect women’s representation in politics, members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Plateau State have petitioned the party’s national leadership against alleged moves to remove Ambassador Hannatu Gagara as State Chairman.
The petition, which was read by the Chairman of ADC Central Zone, Hon. Manasseh Watyil, on behalf of the group during a press conference in Jos, accused the North Central Reconciliation Committee of bias and warned that any attempt to replace Gagara would undermine the party’s commitment to gender equity.
He said: “Ambassador Hannatu Gagara’s leadership has restored stability, visibility and unity in the ADC Plateau State Chapter after years of inactivity. Under her stewardship, the party conducted local government elections for the first time, organized successful congresses and rebuilt structures across all 17 local government areas.”
“It is unfortunate that despite these achievements, some members are attempting to impose a suspended former chairman, contrary to the ADC Constitution and the principle of fair hearing. We will not allow the will of the people to be subverted under any guise.”
According to him,Removing Amb. Gagara would amount to undermining the party’s constitutional provision of 35 percent representation for women. It will discourage many women who see ADC as a platform of inclusion and fairness.
The petition noted that the crisis stemmed from the suspension of the former interim chairman, Hon. Samuel Gyang, for alleged anti-party activities and gross misconduct, and alleged that the Reconciliation Committee, chaired by Senator Patricia Akwashiki, was acting with bias due to prior affiliations.
It further stated that Gagara’s name remains the only one recognized on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) platform as Plateau ADC Chairperson and called on the National Working Committee to reaffirm her position.
The group urged the party’s national leadership to review the committee’s actions, uphold fairness and transparency, and ensure that the Plateau State chapter continues to operate under the leadership of Ambassador Gagara in the interest of unity and gender inclusion.
