In a surprising development, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has tendered his resignation as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with immediate effect.
Ganduje, a former two-term Governor of Kano State and a prominent northern political figure, said his decision was driven by health concerns that require him to step back from active political leadership and focus on his personal well-being.
The announcement comes at a critical time for the ruling party, as it prepares for court-ordered rerun and bye-elections scheduled for August 16, 2025, across 16 constituencies in 12 states.
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In his resignation letter, Ganduje expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Executive Committee of the APC, and stakeholders nationwide for their support during his tenure. He described his time in office as both an honour and a responsibility and pledged to continue supporting the APC’s mission even outside of formal leadership.
“It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation as National Chairman of our great party, the APC. After careful consultation with my family and medical advisers, I have decided to step down in order to take care of my health, which I have overlooked for too long while carrying out my responsibilities,” Ganduje stated.
Confirming the development, Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, a former Commissioner of Education during Ganduje’s administration in Kano and a Director at The Progressive Institute (TPI), acknowledged the resignation. In a brief statement, Kiru described the move as a difficult but necessary decision, adding that Ganduje’s health and personal well-being must take precedence.
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Party sources said that internal consultations are already ongoing within the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) to determine his interim replacement ahead of a likely emergency convention.
Ganduje’s resignation brings to a close an eventful tenure as party chairman, during which he focused on internal reconciliation, strategic reforms, and preparation for the 2027 general elections. His leadership, though brief, was marked by an effort to stabilize the party after the transition from the Buhari administration to President Tinubu’s government.
As of the time of filing this report, the APC has yet to announce an acting chairman, but several high-ranking members are reportedly positioning themselves to fill the role.
