Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has reportedly stepped down from his position following speculations that former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, is set to join the ruling party.
Sources within the APC confirmed Ganduje’s resignation on Friday, sending shockwaves through the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. Staff and party loyalists gathered in confusion as news spread, and his personal belongings were seen being moved from his office, further fueling the speculation.
A senior party official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Yes, it is true. He has resigned.”
Efforts by key figures, including National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, to dissuade Ganduje reportedly failed. “We tried to convince him not to resign, but he’s clearly upset about Kwankwaso coming into the party. Their rivalry runs deep. All stakeholders pleaded with him, but he eventually made up his mind,” a source said.
Ganduje and Kwankwaso, once political allies under the PDP, served together in Kano State, with Ganduje as Kwankwaso’s deputy during his second term as governor from 2011 to 2015. Their relationship soured after Ganduje succeeded him as governor under the APC in 2015, escalating into a fierce political rivalry.
One key flashpoint in their feud was Ganduje’s controversial removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, seen as loyal to Kwankwaso. Sanusi was reinstated in 2024 by Governor Abba Yusuf of the NNPP, a close Kwankwaso ally.
While Ganduje cited health reasons for his resignation, insiders believe the real cause was internal tension over Kwankwaso’s looming defection and influence within the party.
Buba Galadima, a close Kwankwaso associate, said he wasn’t aware of any official defection plans but admitted there were discussions involving the APC and the presidency about sacrificing high-profile figures—like Ganduje and Vice President Shettima—to make room for new faces.
On social media, Ganduje’s aide, Salihu Yakasai, expressed frustration, posting on X: “TINUBU WHY, APC WHY,” with crying emojis. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad also confirmed the resignation in a Facebook post.
As per APC rules, Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, is expected to step in as acting National Chairman. Discussions around Dalori’s appointment reportedly took place at the Presidential Villa, though the APC National Working Committee has yet to issue an official statement.