Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has stepped down as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending his tenure with immediate effect. He attributed his resignation to health concerns and the need to focus on his well-being. Aides had earlier cleared out his office at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, surprising staff and visitors.
Following his exit, Alhaji Bukar Dalori, the Deputy National Chairman (North), has taken over as acting chairman. According to Section 14(2)(iii) of the APC Constitution, the deputy chairman assumes leadership when the national chairman is absent from their zone.
Party insiders revealed that political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections may have influenced Ganduje’s exit. With many eyeing the vice presidency—especially aspirants from the North West—there are concerns over balancing regional representation. Since the chairmanship was initially zoned to the North Central, a new leader may emerge from that region. Former Nasarawa Governor Senator Umar Tanko Almakura is reportedly a top contender.
Although Ganduje’s resignation letter mentioned health as the reason, sources suggested he was encouraged by President Bola Tinubu to step down in preparation for an ambassadorial appointment. Despite ongoing legal challenges and internal party strife during his leadership, Ganduje was seen as a loyal party figure. He was elected chairman in August 2023 after serving two terms as Governor of Kano State.
His leadership faced controversy, including a suspension by party executives in Kano and court orders restricting his role. A Federal High Court in Abuja later struck out one suit seeking his removal.
The APC has not released an official statement on his resignation. Still, insiders confirmed that only Ganduje was asked to step down, with other members of the National Working Committee retaining their positions. A special convention is expected soon to elect a new chairman and possibly unveil the list of new ambassadors.
