Adamawa ADC crisis: Atiku lauds Yohanna over resignation from Fintiri’s govt
• Says move will strengthen democracy and opposition structure in Nigeria
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, Atiku Abubakar, has commended the decision of Comrade Shehu Yohanna Kambile, the Adamawa State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to resign from Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s administration, describing the move as a demonstration of courage, principle, and deep commitment to democracy.
Atiku, in a statement personally signed by him, said Yohanna’s resignation “reaffirms his commitment to the ideals of the ADC” and marks a critical step in strengthening opposition politics in Nigeria.
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“I commend the State Chairman of the Adamawa ADC, Shehu Yohanna, for reaffirming his commitment to the ADC. His resignation from the state government, though under an IPAC-based agreement, underscores his steadfastness for the journey ahead in restoring true democracy in our country. I urge him to work with the Chairman of the State Transition Leadership Team, Sadiq Dasin, and all stakeholders for the success of our party,” Atiku stated.
The former Vice President noted that vibrant opposition remains a cornerstone of democratic consolidation, urging Yohanna and other ADC leaders to “remain steadfast in building an inclusive and progressive political alternative for Nigerians.”
Comrade Yohanna, in a resignation letter dated November 12, 2025, formally announced his exit from his position as Senior Special Assistant to Governor Fintiri on Community Mobilization and Peaceful Coexistence.
The letter, addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government, emphasized that his resignation was “a strategic move to dedicate his energy to strengthening the ADC as a leading opposition party in Adamawa State and across Nigeria.”
He explained that his initial appointment came through the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) framework, designed to promote political inclusiveness and collaboration across party lines.
However, Yohanna said he now feels compelled to focus entirely on his primary mandate building a strong and viable opposition platform capable of holding government accountable and deepening democratic practice.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, CON. However, the time has come to step aside and focus on my primary mandate: building a robust and effective opposition that can provide a credible alternative for the people,” Yohanna said.
He further expressed gratitude to Governor Fintiri for the privilege to serve in his administration and to contribute to the peace and development of Adamawa State.
He also commended members of IPAC for their collaboration in promoting inter-party harmony during his tenure.
In a separate personal statement issued after submitting his resignation letter, Yohanna extended appreciation to Atiku Abubakar, describing him as “a father figure and democrat who has always encouraged inclusive politics.” He praised Atiku for his “unflinching support and commitment to participatory democracy within the ADC.”
Yohanna’s resignation has generated considerable political attention in Adamawa, as analysts describe it as a bold statement of intent by the ADC to reposition itself as the state’s most formidable opposition platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party insiders revealed that Yohanna’s decision was reached after extensive consultations with ADC stakeholders both within and outside the state. It is seen as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party’s structure and rally progressive forces around its transition leadership team led by Sadiq Dasin.
Meanwhile, ADC members across the state have lauded the move, describing Yohanna’s action as a sign of renewed vigor within the opposition. They believe his departure from the Fintiri government will enable him to more effectively coordinate the ADC’s mobilization and advocacy activities, particularly among the youth and grassroots supporters.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the development is expected to further reshape the political landscape of Adamawa State, with Atiku’s open commendation seen as a signal of support for stronger opposition voices that can help balance Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.
