Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has resigned from his position with immediate effect, citing health-related reasons.
The former Governor of Kano State, who assumed office as APC chairman in August 2023, said his decision was driven by the need to focus on his personal well-being. However, the announcement comes against a backdrop of persistent controversy, internal party unrest, and unresolved legal battles.
While Mr Ganduje’s resignation letter refers to health concerns, sources within the party suggest deeper political undercurrents may have influenced his departure. According to insiders, rising internal pressure and allegations of financial misconduct may have contributed to the timing of his exit.
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In particular, Ganduje faced criticism over alleged excessive financial demands levied on party aspirants. Candidates seeking APC tickets for Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections reportedly complained about steep fees imposed by the party’s leadership under his watch.
His resignation marks a turning point in the APC’s leadership and has sparked speculation about the direction of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ganduje’s tenure was fraught with legal and political challenges. In April 2024, a Kano State High Court issued an ex parte order restraining him from presenting himself as a member of the party, following a lawsuit filed by a faction of party executives in Kano. Although a Federal High Court in Abuja later struck out a separate suit seeking his removal — filed by the APC North Central Forum — the controversies highlighted the divisions within the party during his leadership.
So far, the APC has not released an official statement confirming his resignation or announcing interim leadership arrangements, further fuelling speculation and uncertainty among party stakeholders and observers.
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Ganduje previously served as Governor of Kano State from 2015 to 2023, a period also marked by controversy, including allegations of corruption which he consistently denied.
His sudden resignation as national chairman now opens a critical chapter for the APC, as the party navigates internal restructuring, public perception challenges, and strategic planning ahead of future elections.
