President Bola Tinubu reportedly ordered Abdullahi Ganduje to resign from his position as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Although Ganduje claimed health reasons as the cause of his resignation, sources say he stepped down after the president asked him to do so, paving the way for a new leadership arrangement in the party.
The resignation took effect immediately, as the APC appointed Deputy National Chairman (North), Alhaji Bukar Dalori, as acting chairman.
Party insiders revealed that Ganduje’s personal items had already been removed from his office before the news became public, surprising many staff and visitors at the APC national secretariat in Abuja.
While Ganduje pointed to health as the reason for stepping aside, it was gathered that the real motive may be linked to his nomination for an ambassadorial role.
Those close to the matter said he was asked to vacate his seat to prepare for the new position.
Another major trigger that led to Ganduje’s resignation was a reported agreement between President Tinubu and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso to facilitate Kwankwaso’s entry into the APC.
Ganduje, known to have a strained relationship with Kwankwaso, was said to be strongly opposed to the idea.
By Friday afternoon, sources at the APC national secretariat revealed that Ganduje had threatened to quit over the matter.
Despite pleas from top party officers, including National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, Ganduje resigned around 4:15pm.
His exit is also connected to political plans ahead of the 2027 election.
There are ongoing efforts to balance power between regions within the APC.
Many politicians from the North West, where Ganduje is from, are being considered as possible vice-presidential candidates.
If that happens, the party’s chairman may be chosen from another zone, likely the North Central, which originally held the slot.
One of the names being discussed to replace Ganduje is former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, who is seen as a top contender.
Ganduje became APC chairman in August 2023 amid internal party conflicts.
His tenure was marked by legal challenges and public disputes, including court rulings and suspension attempts from within the party.
Although the APC has not released an official statement, sources said a special convention will soon be held to elect a new chairman.
Other members of the party’s National Working Committee are expected to remain in office, while the full list of new ambassadors is also expected to be announced soon.