By Rafiat SADIQ
In a dramatic development, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje has stepped down as the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Though the party is yet to make an official announcement, a senior APC official confirmed the news late Friday, stating simply, “Yes, it is true. He has resigned.”
The surprise resignation has plunged the APC’s national secretariat in Abuja into confusion.
Witnesses reported that Ganduje’s personal effects were removed from his office earlier in the day, fuelling speculation ahead of the confirmation. Staff and visitors at the party headquarters were seen expressing disbelief as word of his exit spread.
Behind the Exit
While a resignation letter reportedly cited health reasons, insiders point to internal power struggles and growing political pressure as key factors behind Ganduje’s decision. His tenure as party chairman, which began in August 2023, had been turbulent from the start.
Sources within the party allege mounting dissatisfaction over what they described as “excessive financial demands” on candidates, particularly aspirants for FCT area council elections.
These grievances, coupled with long-standing allegations of financial impropriety, are believed to have intensified calls for his removal in some quarters.
A Controversial Tenure
Ganduje, who previously served two terms as Governor of Kano State (2015–2023), has faced multiple challenges since taking the reins of the APC.
In April 2024, a Kano State High Court granted an ex parte order restraining him from acting as a member of the party, following internal disputes.
Though a separate suit seeking his removal was dismissed by a Federal High Court in Abuja, the legal battles highlighted deep divisions within the party.
His leadership also drew criticism for failing to unite competing factions and for the perceived sidelining of key stakeholders from various zones.
What Next for the APC?
Ganduje’s resignation opens a new chapter in the APC’s leadership dynamics, with political watchers keenly observing who will emerge as his successor. The party is yet to communicate its next steps or name an interim replacement.
As the APC grapples with the fallout, questions remain about the future direction of a party facing increasing internal dissent ahead of key off-cycle elections.
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.