NDC reinstates Borno candidate after Atiku campaign controversy

The Nigeria Democratic Congress in Borno State has withdrawn its dismissal notice against one of its House of Assembly candidates, Mohammed Bunu, who was earlier sanctioned for allegedly campaigning for the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

The PUNCH reported that in a letter dated October 25, 2026, and addressed to Bunu, the party said his conduct was considered inconsistent with its constitution, rules, regulations and established principles of discipline.

“The matter concerns campaign material bearing the logo of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the slogan ‘SABON TAFIYA, SABON SALO,’ and the photographs and names of His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Hon Mohammed Bunu,” the letter stated in part.

However, in a statement made available to our correspondent on Tuesday, the party said a state reconciliation committee set up to investigate the alleged anti-party activities had concluded its inquiry and cleared Bunu.

The statement, signed by the party’s state Publicity Secretary, Aliyu Balarabe, said a seven-member committee was constituted on October 25, 2026, to investigate the matter and ensure a fair hearing.

“Findings: After examining reports from Hausari Ward and MMC structures and hearing Hon. Bunu, the committee found him not guilty. The allegations were not established,” he said.

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According to Balarabe, Article 19 of the party’s constitution provides that only the national convention has the power to confirm the expulsion of a member.

“Any notice from a lower organ without such confirmation cannot be treated as valid expulsion,” he stressed.

He added, “Decision: The earlier dismissal notice against Hon. Mohammed Bunu is hereby formally withdrawn.”

Balarabe said Bunu remained a fully recognised member of the NDC.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Mohammed Bunu remains a fully recognised member of the NDC. All members and the public should treat the earlier notice as withdrawn,” he said.