NDC removes Borno state assembly candidate over alleged support for Atiku Abubakar

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Borno State has formally dismissed Mohammed Bunu, its candidate for the state House of Assembly, following allegations that he engaged in campaign activities for the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The party leadership issued a disciplinary decision on October 25, 2026, stating that Bunu’s conduct was inconsistent with the NDC’s constitution, rules, and established principles of discipline. The dismissal follows a series of internal investigations and failed attempts to secure Bunu’s presence at disciplinary hearings.

Umar Fema, serving as the NDC state deputy chairman, stated in a signed document that the accusations involve campaign items displaying the ADC emblem, the phrase 'SABON TAFIYA, SABON SALO,' along with the images and identities of Atiku Abubakar and Bunu. The party leadership expressed concern that the appearance of Bunu’s name and image on such materials raised questions regarding his political association, allegiance, and commitment to the NDC’s interests. The letter explicitly communicated that the party viewed this as a serious disciplinary issue requiring examination under its internal procedures.

Background

The disciplinary process began at the Hausari ward level, where the Ward Executive invited Bunu to appear before them at approximately 10 am on October 23, 2026. He was asked to respond to allegations concerning his involvement in campaign activities associated with another political party. According to the report submitted by the ward leadership, Bunu did not appear to defend himself against the charges. After Bunu failed to show up, ward secretary Rabiu Umar advised taking disciplinary measures and forwarded the issue to the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council Working Committee for additional review.

Subsequently, the political group sent a second summons requiring Bunu to attend a hearing before the investigation panel on October 24, 2026. However, the NDC reported that he again failed to attend the hearing. The final decision to dismiss him was communicated in a letter dated October 25, 2026. The letter, which was made available to Punch News on Sunday, outlined the procedural steps taken by the party, from the initial ward-level complaint to the final decision by the state leadership. The NDC emphasized that the decision was based on the evidence of the campaign materials and the candidate's failure to engage with the disciplinary process.

Why it matters

This dismissal highlights the strict disciplinary measures the NDC is enforcing within its Borno State chapter, particularly regarding candidate loyalty and adherence to party principles. The incident underscores the tensions between political actors and party structures, especially when candidates are perceived to be aligning with rival parties such as the ADC. For the NDC, maintaining discipline among its candidates is crucial for its organizational integrity and electoral strategy. The removal of Bunu serves as a precedent for how the party handles allegations of anti-party activities, signaling that candidates who fail to uphold their allegiance or respond to internal inquiries may face removal. The specific mention of Atiku Abubakar, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, adds a layer of political significance to the dispute, as it involves the intersection of two major political entities in the region.

What happens next

The sources do not provide information on any further steps, appeals, or pending decisions following the dismissal of Mohammed Bunu. The letter dated October 25, 2026, represents the final communication from the NDC Borno State leadership regarding this specific disciplinary matter.