Abdullahi Ganduje’s resignation as APC National Chairman on Friday has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political landscape. Sources at the APC secretariat disclosed that Ganduje made the decision to step down following internal developments within the party.
By 3 p.m., insiders revealed that Ganduje was considering resignation due to ongoing discussions at the highest levels of the party. Despite attempts by party leaders, including National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, to dissuade him, Ganduje’s resignation became official by 4:15 p.m.
A party insider explained, “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.” Another source confirmed the resignation, noting a personal feud between Ganduje and Kwankwaso.
The relationship between the two former governors has been strained since Ganduje succeeded Kwankwaso in 2015, turning former allies into rivals. Their conflict extended to the removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi, a Kwankwaso loyalist, who was reinstated in 2024 by a Kwankwaso-led party governor.
Though Ganduje cited health as his reason for stepping down, political dynamics suggest otherwise. Buba Galadima, a Kwankwaso ally, denied knowledge of Kwankwaso’s defection plans but revealed a meeting where Ganduje and Vice President Kashim Shettima were to be “sacrificed” for new leadership.
Ganduje’s aide expressed frustration on social media, while former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad confirmed the resignation.