A confrontation unfolded at the residence of Abdullahi Adamu, the chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), when a team of anti-graft operatives attempted to execute a search warrant. Sources reveal that Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) agents faced resistance from police orderlies attached to Mr. Adamu. The standoff ensued when the police officers cited the late hour and refused entry, despite being shown a warrant signed by a judge. The purpose of the search warrant remains unclear, but Mr. Adamu has faced ongoing corruption allegations. The physically intense confrontation lasted for hours but resulted in no casualties.
The incident comes amid mounting pressure for Mr. Adamu to resign as the national chairman of the APC. Sources indicate that his failure to support President Bola Tinubu during the APC’s presidential primary and election has made his position untenable. While Mr. Adamu attended campaign rallies, insiders suggest it was merely a face-saving measure. Efforts to pressure him to step down reportedly took place before the president’s return from an African Union summit.
Although media outlets affiliated with Mr. Tinubu’s aides circulated reports of Mr. Adamu’s resignation following intervention by national security adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo, evidence of his resignation remains unconfirmed. Mr. Adamu has neither confirmed nor denied the reports but has maintained that he won’t be stepping down.
The removal of Mr. Adamu as APC chairman must adhere closely to the party’s constitution to avoid potential litigation. Party members recall previous instances during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration when confrontations between party chairmen and the president resulted in the chairmen’s removal. Given this historical context, party members believe Mr. Adamu’s open confrontation with President Tinubu will likely lead to his departure from the chairmanship position.
As the situation unfolds, the APC’s national caucus gathering scheduled for this week may present an opportunity to address the issue further. However, it remains to be seen how the party will navigate the potential ramifications of removing Mr. Adamu from his position.