Tinubu’s Move: Ganduje’s Resignation Linked to Kwankwaso’s APC Plans
More details have emerged on the circumstances surrounding the resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to sources, Ganduje’s decision to quit his position was triggered by the reported move of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to join the APC.
Gathered that Ganduje was upset about the agreement between President Bola Tinubu and Kwankwaso for the latter to join the party.
As early as 3 pm on Friday, sources close to the matter informed our correspondent that Ganduje was threatening to resign. Despite efforts by principal officers of the party, including the National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, to persuade him to stay, Ganduje remained resolute.
One insider disclosed, “We are currently pleading with him (Ganduje) not to resign. He is upset that Kwankwaso is coming to the APC. I think the two of them are sworn enemies.
All the stakeholders are begging him to stay.” However, around 4:15 pm, the source confirmed that Ganduje had indeed resigned, stating, “He has eventually resigned. We couldn’t stop him. I think there is something personal between him and Kwankwaso, who is ready to join the APC after some discussions with the President.”
When asked about the situation at the APC secretariat, a worker simply said, “There is no crisis, just that the chairman has resigned and people gathered at the secretariat to discuss about it.” The development has sent shockwaves through the party, with many speculating about the implications of Ganduje’s resignation.
Ganduje and Kwankwaso have a long history of political rivalry, dating back to their days in the Peoples Democratic Party. Kwankwaso served as governor of Kano State from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2011 to 2015, with Ganduje as his deputy during the second term.
However, their relationship soured shortly after Ganduje succeeded Kwankwaso as governor in 2015 under the APC. Since then, the two have frequently clashed over control of Kano’s political structure and influence.
One notable incident that highlights their rivalry is the deposition of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, who was installed by and believed to be loyal to Kwankwaso. However, Sanusi was reinstated on May 23, 2024, by Governor Abba Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, under Kwankwaso’s leadership.
Though Ganduje cited health grounds as the reason for his decision to quit as APC National Chairman. Ganduje was elected to the position in August 2023. The implications of his resignation on the party’s future remain to be seen.
