The internal dynamics of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are set for a dramatic shift as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu takes bold steps to reposition the party ahead of critical political engagements. A trusted source within the APC confirmed to The Whistler that Tinubu has endorsed the removal of the party’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, as part of a broader strategy to sanitize the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) and strengthen its position against potential alliances between opposition heavyweights.
Ganduje’s Strategic Appointment
The first step in this political maneuver was President Tinubu’s appointment of Ganduje as the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). According to sources in the presidency, this appointment is a calculated move to facilitate Ganduje’s exit from his role as National Chairman. The aim is to clear the path for discussions with influential politicians, particularly Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to prevent any potential merger between Kwankwaso and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) led by Atiku Abubakar.
Wooing Kwankwaso and Others
The move comes amidst reports that Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has set a critical condition for any collaboration with the APC: the removal of Ganduje as National Chairman. Sources reveal that Kwankwaso’s demand has garnered the backing of key political figures, including Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, former governors, and other power brokers within the APC.
President Tinubu, aware of the potential threat posed by a Kwankwaso-Atiku merger, is reportedly working to bring Kwankwaso and other influential politicians like Tom Ikini and Adeleke into the APC fold. This strategic realignment is expected to strengthen the APC’s base ahead of the next party congresses and a membership drive.
Ganduje’s Resignation Imminent?
Insiders disclosed that Ganduje’s resignation as National Chairman is likely to occur before the APC’s upcoming congresses. The president’s decision to appoint him to the FAAN board is seen as a “soft landing” for the embattled chairman. This move is also part of a broader plan to sanitize the APC’s leadership structure and enhance internal cohesion, a necessary step as the party prepares for future elections and political negotiations.
Avoiding Opposition Alliances
The urgency of this realignment stems from fears of a coalition between Kwankwaso and Atiku, which could significantly alter Nigeria’s political landscape. Kwankwaso’s NNPP has been gaining traction in northern Nigeria, while Atiku remains a formidable force within the PDP. A merger between the two could pose a serious challenge to the APC’s dominance.
By addressing Kwankwaso’s concerns and removing Ganduje, Tinubu aims to not only strengthen the APC’s internal unity but also neutralize any threats from opposition alliances.
Backing from Governors and Ex-Governors
The move to oust Ganduje has reportedly received widespread support from APC governors and ex-governors. Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State is said to be among the key supporters of this decision. Their endorsement underscores the strategic importance of this shake-up in ensuring the APC’s continued dominance in Nigeria’s political space.
Conclusion
As the APC prepares for its next phase, President Tinubu’s actions demonstrate a clear commitment to maintaining the party’s relevance and stability. By addressing internal conflicts and wooing influential politicians like Kwankwaso, the president is positioning the APC to retain its stronghold on power while neutralizing threats from the opposition. The coming weeks will reveal whether these strategic moves will yield the desired outcomes, but one thing is clear: the APC under Tinubu is undergoing a significant transformation.
