In a dramatic turn of events, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has resigned from his post, sources confirmed on Friday.
Although no official explanation has been released, party insiders revealed that Ganduje’s departure follows mounting pressure from key stakeholders, particularly from the North Central geopolitical zone, which has persistently demanded the chairmanship be zoned back to their region.
A senior party official confirmed the resignation, stating simply, “Yes, it is true. He has resigned.” Earlier, Ganduje’s personal belongings were removed from his office at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, signaling the finality of his exit.
Ganduje, a former Kano State governor, was appointed APC chairman in August 2023 after Senator Abdullahi Adamu stepped down. His appointment was controversial, sparking legal challenges and internal party dissent due to zoning disagreements.
While Ganduje cited health reasons for stepping down, sources suggest that political calculations and allegations of financial impropriety related to party ticket fees also influenced his decision. The resignation is viewed as a move to quell internal party tensions and reposition the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party is expected to appoint one of its national vice chairmen as acting chairman until the national convention in December 2025.