Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has officially resigned from his position as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with immediate effect.
The former Governor of Kano State, who led the party since August 2023, cited health-related concerns as the reason for his decision, noting the need to focus on his personal well-being.
Ganduje’s tenure was fraught with internal strife and public controversy. His appointment came during a turbulent period within the APC, and although he pointed to health challenges in his resignation letter, insiders claim that deepening political tensions within the party also influenced his decision to step down.
Allegations of financial misconduct further shadowed his leadership. Reports emerged of dissatisfaction among party members, particularly from aspirants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area councils, who accused Ganduje’s office of imposing excessive financial levies for securing party tickets.
His resignation represents a major turning point in the APC’s leadership, with many stakeholders seeking clarity on the underlying factors and future implications. As of now, the party has not released an official statement, fueling speculation and uncertainty.
Ganduje’s time in office was also marked by legal disputes and internal power struggles. In April 2024, a Kano State High Court issued an ex parte order barring him from presenting himself as a party member, following a case brought by some APC executives. However, a Federal High Court in Abuja later dismissed a separate suit filed by the APC North Central Forum seeking his removal.
The resignation has ignited reactions on social media, especially among political opponents and supporters of the Kwankwasiyya movement.
Engr. Bashir Bukar Muhammad, a prominent ally of Vice President Kashim Shettima and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, commented, “The prayer is beginning to work.”
Hassan Cikinza Rano, a former Senior Special Assistant to Ganduje on Agriculture, shared a photo with him, captioned, “It is certain, politics is harder than being in the army.”
Hon. Abbah Bari also weighed in on Facebook, writing: “A certain political calculation only by Ganduje and Asiwaju — honestly, what has been planned for Kano politics, if someone merely told you about it, you wouldn’t believe it. Just wait and watch.”
As developments unfold, the APC faces a critical moment in its leadership transition.
