Ganduje’s Exit and Northern Political Manoeuvres

By Shu’aibu Usman Leman

In a surprising turn of events, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has tendered his resignation as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective immediately. The leadership of the party has been handed over to the National Deputy Chairman, Dr Ali Bukar Dalori, who will serve in an acting capacity until a new chairman is elected.
Meanwhile, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has scheduled a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting for 24th July to nominate a new National Chairman for the party.
Addressing journalists after an emergency meeting of the National Working Committee -NWC at the party’s national secretariat, the Deputy National Secretary, Barrister Festus Fuanter, stated that the meeting would provide the party with an opportunity to nominate a fresh Chairman.
While Dr Ganduje cited ill health as the reason for his sudden departure, various opinions are circulating regarding the true motives behind his resignation. Regardless of the stated cause, it is widely believed that his decision is intricately linked to the complex political manoeuvres and permutations ahead of the 2027 general election. The timing of this resignation, just over two years out from the next national polls, suggests a strategic realignment within the party.
During his tenure as party chairman, Dr Ganduje championed a forward-thinking vision for the APC. He spearheaded the modernisation of the party’s operational framework through initiatives such as digital membership registration, aiming to streamline and enhance internal processes. Furthermore, he was instrumental in the establishment of The Progressive Institute, a dedicated think tank. This institute was designed to serve as a crucial platform for cultivating internal democracy, fostering robust debate and formulating progressive policy.
This emphasis on developing a well-structured internal organisation and maintaining a forward-thinking agenda has undoubtedly enabled the APC to navigate various challenges effectively. Under his leadership, the party consistently sought to present itself as a stable and viable alternative to the electorate.
Dr Ganduje’s leadership also saw the APC adeptly capitalise on the political vacuum created by internal disruptions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). By maintaining a relatively united front, the APC managed to solidify its position and project an image of cohesion. His clear articulation of party policies and a proactive, engaging governance style helped to position the APC not merely as the ruling party but as a perceived catalyst for national development and progress. These significant contributions to the party’s structure and public image will undoubtedly form part of his enduring legacy.
This unexpected development is set to ignite further debate and speculation within Nigeria’s political landscape. With time, the most significant implications of Dr Ganduje’s resignation for the APC and the broader political climate leading up to 2027 will become clearer.
As Nigeria hurtles towards the 2027 general election, the political landscape resembles a high-stakes chess match, replete with strategic manoeuvres and palpable anticipation. Central to this unfolding drama is the intense competition among Northern politicians for the coveted Vice-Presidential slot alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This crucial decision transcends mere nominations; it encompasses a multifaceted equation involving geographical representation, deep-rooted religious sensitivities, unwavering political loyalty and the ever-evolving tides of public opinion. The outcome of this contest will indelibly shape the North’s electoral strategies and reverberate through Nigeria’s future governance.
Within the diverse tapestry of Northern politics, the North-West geopolitical zone has emerged as a particularly assertive faction, actively advocating for one of its own to secure the Vice-Presidential nomination. This region, historically a bastion of political influence and a significant demographic power bloc, believes that a running mate from the North-West would substantially enhance the presidential ticket’s appeal and electability.
Their arguments assert that such a candidate would galvanise a critical and expansive voting bloc, bridging potential regional divides and effectively counterbalancing any perceived Southern dominance within Nigeria’s current political arrangement. The North-West’s historical contributions to national electoral outcomes, along with its vast population base, lend considerable weight to its insistent demand for representation at the highest echelons of power. This desire for a candidate from the North-West region embodies an urgent need to reclaim a perceived pre-eminence, ensuring the region’s interests are robustly articulated and integrated into the broader governance framework. This imperative will likely shape the National Executive Council’s internal deliberations as they weigh their options and respond to calls for a more inclusive ticket in 2027.
Currently serving as Vice President, Kashim Shettima, from the North-East, occupies a position that appears stable at first glance. However, a closer examination reveals a discernible, albeit subtle, lack of fervent support for his continuation among his Northern peers. Northern politicians, known for their strategic restraint, have largely refrained from overt criticism of Shettima. Yet, beneath the surface lies a preference among many political elites for alternative candidates, hinting at an underlying dissatisfaction with Shettima’s performance and representation.
This unspoken discontent mirrors a broader desire for a political figure who can resonate more authentically with the evolving interests of the North. Whispers within political corridors suggest a quest for a candidate capable not only of securing votes but also articulating a comprehensive agenda addressing pressing regional concerns – an agenda some believe Shettima may not have fully championed. This dynamic not only raises pertinent questions about Shettima’s perceived effectiveness but also hints at potential fissures within the historically unified Northern political front, signalling a recalibration of strategies for the forthcoming electoral showdown.
Intriguingly, while North-West political leaders are seemingly preoccupied with clandestinely scheming to hijack the Vice-Presidential slot from the North-East, they appeared to be comfortably ignoring another significant political position: the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This position, which was held by a politician from the North-West, was a source of considerable grievance for the North-Central geopolitical zone, which feels it should rightfully be theirs. This apparent tunnel vision on the Vice-Presidential ticket, at the expense of addressing the North-Central’s concerns over the party chairmanship, highlights a strategic misstep or perhaps a calculated gamble by the North-West’s political elite. It underscores a prioritisation of the executive arm of government over party leadership, potentially creating internal party friction as 2027 draws nearer. With the exit of Ganduje, however, will this issue now be resolved in favour of the North-Central region?
The political landscape is often rife with intrigue, as politicians engage in strategic manoeuvring and subtle attempts to outmanoeuvre their rivals. However, amidst this intricate dance of ambition and rivalry, a crucial element frequently overlooked is the Christian community’s perspective, especially in light of the contentious debates surrounding the 2023 election. The decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to run a Muslim-Muslim ticket stirred significant controversy and raised questions about inclusivity and representation in a nation characterised by its diverse religious landscape.
As we analyse the political strategies at play, it is essential to consider whether the sentiments of the Christian community have become an afterthought in the ongoing political discourse. Have their voices been completely marginalised, or is there an underlying tension that still holds sway over the electorate’s dynamics? Moreover, this situation raises broader questions: What implications does this strategy have for interfaith relations within the country? Are political parties recognising the potential repercussions of sidelining the Christian electorate, historically a substantial voting bloc?
The importance of religious representation cannot be understated, particularly in a nation where faith influences both personal and communal identities. By exploring this dimension more thoroughly, we can uncover how the disregard for Christian sentiments could shape future electoral outcomes and policies. Furthermore, it would be prudent to assess whether the current political landscape creates room for genuine dialogue between religious communities, or if it fosters further divisions.
In addition, as politicians continue their tactical plays, it is imperative that we do not lose sight of the broader implications of their choices on national unity and the socio-political fabric of the nation. Understanding the Christian community’s position is not merely a matter of political strategy; it is essential for fostering a more inclusive democracy that genuinely reflects the voices of all its citizens.
Amid this politically charged atmosphere, the pre-election manoeuvring reveals an intriguing aspect of Northern political strategy: the skilled art of downplaying personal ambitions. Many influential Northern politicians have publicly urged their supporters to rally behind President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
On the surface, this promotes an image of selfless loyalty and unwavering commitment to national progress. However, this portrayal is also laced with shrewd calculative intent. By projecting support for the administration, these political figures manage to retain public favour and convey a united front to the electorate while positioning themselves for future opportunities as the political climate evolves. This nuanced interplay of public deference to incumbents and the private pursuit of ambition characterises the sophistication of seasoned Northern politicians. They manoeuvre within the political landscape, ready to capitalise when the moment calls for a more open declaration of their intentions. This strategy reflects a deep understanding of political timing and the leverage that can be garnered in a landscape marked by shifting allegiances and emerging power dynamics.
As the 2027 general election draws closer, debates surrounding the selection of President Tinubu’s running mate are expected to reach a fever pitch within the broader political discourse. Analysts, party loyalists and citizens are already deeply engaged in spirited discussions regarding potential candidates from the North-West, each bringing unique attributes and political legacies to the table.
The implications of the Vice-Presidential decision are poised to reverberate far beyond the immediate electoral cycle. This choice will likely reshape political alignments and reconfigure long-standing relationships throughout Nigeria, potentially straining or solidifying North-South dynamics that have traditionally defined the Nigerian federal structure. The reactions and sentiments of grassroots supporters nationwide – driven by intricate interplays of religious, economic and regional factors – will serve as critical barometers for gauging acceptance or discontent with the ultimate decision. A miscalculation at this pivotal moment could spark widespread discontent, fracturing existing alliances and carving out new political fault lines capable of destabilising the once-steadfast polity. Therefore, the selection of the Vice-Presidential candidate will reflect not only a commitment to equitable representation but will also serve as an essential litmus test for the ruling party’s overarching vision regarding national unity and inclusive governance.
In summary, President Tinubu’s decision regarding a running mate is imbued with complexity, strategy and palpable anticipation from an array of political stakeholders. Whether he ultimately opts for a candidate from the North-West to enhance regional harmony and voter appeal, or chooses to retain Shettima as a symbol of continuity, his decision will undoubtedly become a defining moment in shaping the electoral narrative of 2027. This choice will significantly influence not only the immediate political landscape but also the long-term trajectory of governance in Nigeria. The stakes are extraordinarily high as the interplay of regional ambitions, personal aspirations and national interest converge.
The North, with its rich tapestry of political significance, must navigate these complexities while remaining firmly united in purpose. Each political player must consider the unifying versus divisive potential of their actions and decisions in the days leading up to the election. The quest for balance – between regional representation and the national good – will continue to challenge those involved in shaping the future of Nigerian politics.
As the intricate political manoeuvres persist, the Northern region is positioned to play a critical role not just in the electoral success of President Tinubu’s candidacy but also in fostering a governance structure that addresses the multifaceted needs of a diverse populace. The potential implications extend beyond political victories; they encompass broader themes of social equity, development and the overall stability of the Nigerian federation.
In conclusion, the 2027 Vice-Presidential ticket is more than a footnote in Nigeria’s political history – it serves as a foundational element that could redefine how power is shared and exercised throughout the country. Political actors in the North must tread carefully as they engage in this ballet of ambition and loyalty, for their decisions will resonate well beyond the election, leaving indelible marks on the political fabric of the nation for generations to come. With every move scrutinised and every alliance tested, the Northern politicians’ strategic approaches in this electoral chess game could very well determine the path Nigeria takes in the coming years, as it navigates the complex dance of democracy and governance in an increasingly polarised society.

Shu’aibu Usman Leman is former National Secretary, Nigeria Union of Journalists- NUJ email: shuaibuusmanleman@yahoo.com