By John Umeh
In a surprise move that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has officially resigned as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement, made late Tuesday evening, comes amid mounting internal party tensions and speculation over Ganduje’s future role in Nigerian politics.
The former Kano State governor, who assumed the APC chairmanship in August 2023, has not yet disclosed the reasons for his sudden exit. Party officials confirmed his resignation but declined to provide further details, fueling widespread curiosity and political chatter.
Sources within the APC’s national secretariat in Abuja hinted that Ganduje’s decision may have been influenced by growing pressure from within the party’s ranks, particularly from powerful northern blocs who had reportedly become dissatisfied with his leadership style. However, no official explanation has been released as of the time of this report.
Party spokesman Felix Morka confirmed Ganduje’s resignation in a brief statement to the press: “Yes, the chairman has tendered his resignation, and the party will issue a formal response and plan for transition in due course.”
Ganduje’s tenure was marked by a series of controversial decisions and internal disputes that some say eroded unity within the party. His leadership faced criticism for its handling of key issues, including intra-party disputes and allegations of marginalization of some factions. However, others have credited him with helping stabilize the party in the wake of the 2023 general elections and with playing a key role in ensuring APC’s continued dominance in national politics.
Political analysts are now weighing the potential implications of Ganduje’s resignation. Some see it as a sign of deeper instability within the ruling party, while others believe it opens the door for a strategic realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As of now, the APC has not named an interim chairman or indicated when a new leader will be selected. Meanwhile, speculation is rife over who may be tapped to replace Ganduje, with names like Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and former Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura being floated in political circles.
Observers note that Ganduje’s departure marks yet another chapter in the dynamic and often unpredictable story of Nigerian party politics. Whether his exit is a temporary retreat or a signal of deeper political recalculations remains to be seen.
For now, the nation watches closely as the APC charts its next move in the absence of one of its most influential figures.
