Efforts to influence the leadership transition have intensified following the resignation of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). A prominent candidate has emerged as the leading contender to succeed the former governor of Kano State.
According to several reports, Ganduje, cited health reasons for his decision, stating that he needs to focus on his well-being.
Ganduje’s tenure as APC chairman has been marked by controversy and challenges. He was elected as the APC National Chairman in August 2023, amidst internal party conflicts. Prior to his election, Mr Ganduje served as the Governor of Kano State from 2015 to 2023.
While Ganduje’s resignation letter attributes his decision to health concerns, sources familiar with the matter suggest that political tension within the party may have also played a role in his decision to step down.
Allegations of financial impropriety have also been linked to his resignation, with some party members reportedly protesting “excessive financial demands” imposed by his office.
Several names have been flying around as possible replacement for Ganduje while President Tinubu is also considering a former governor to fill the post immediately.
According to a source within APC, Tinubu would prefers appointing former Nasarawa State governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, as a scapegoat to pacify the CPC factions that are trying to defect from the APC.
Reports indicate that Al-Makura has been offered the APC national chairmanship if he can convince former President Buhari to intervene and prevent his supporters from leaving the APC.
