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All-Progressives Congress (APC)

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

Even Out of Office, Ganduje Remains the Soul of APC — Party Loyalist

In Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape, where loyalty often fades with power, one name continues to echo with authority and resilience, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former Governor of Kano State and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Though no longer holding office, Ganduje’s political influence remains deeply woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s ruling party, shaping its internal structure, policies, and grassroots coordination. Political observers agree that Ganduje’s imprint on the APC is not one that time or transition can erase. His tenure as National Chairman was marked by unity-building, reconciliation, and the institutional strengthening of the party. Under his watch, the APC’s internal cohesion was restored after years of factional disputes that threatened its stability. Related: Tinubu, Ganduje Join Dignitaries at Uzodinma’s Book Launch in Imo He also initiated reforms that gave the party a policy direction including the creation of The Progressive Institute (TPI), a think tank designed to advance research, ideological development, and evidence-based policy formulation for the APC. Even as leadership has changed hands, Ganduje’s influence continues to resonate across party ranks. His ability to engage governors, legislators, and party executives with calm but firm diplomacy has earned him a reputation as one of the APC’s most pragmatic bridge-builders. When contacted for his perspective, Umar Idris Shuaibu, a Kano-based journalist and loyal APC member, described Dr. Ganduje as the “soul of the party,” emphasizing that his relevance goes beyond political office. Read Also: Ganduje Emerges as Rallying Point for Kano Appointees in Push for 2027 “Dr. Ganduje represents consistency in leadership, he is a man whose political strength lies not just in his position, but in his principles. Even after leaving office, his voice still carries weight across the APC because he built trust, nurtured loyalty, and delivered results. You can’t talk about the APC’s survival and stability today without mentioning Ganduje’s influence. His ability to unify divergent interests within the party and sustain dialogue between leaders across the states made him an indispensable figure in Nigeria’s ruling political structure.” He added: “What sets him apart is his calm but strategic leadership style, he listens, negotiates, and builds consensus without losing sight of the bigger picture. During his tenure as APC National Chairman, he demonstrated maturity by reconciling internal factions and prioritizing party unity over personal gain. He also engineered the formation of The Progressive Institute (TPI), the party’s policy think tank designed to guide ideological direction and policy formulation, a move that further institutionalized knowledge-driven governance within the APC. Even in Kano, where the APC is currently in opposition, the structure he built remains intact because he invested in people, not just politics.” Looking ahead to 2027, Shuaibu believes Ganduje’s strategic influence will continue to shape APC’s evolution. “As we look toward 2027, Ganduje’s imprint on the APC remains visible in the party’s internal coordination, communication strategy, and grassroots mobilization. Many of us who learned from his political school of thought have come to value patience, inclusion, and bridge-building. Personally, I’ve learned that leadership is not about titles but about legacy — and Ganduje’s legacy is one of endurance, loyalty, and political resilience. His name will continue to echo wherever the APC story is told.” Political analysts share a similar sentiment, noting that Ganduje’s style of leadership — rooted in discipline, strategic thinking, and conflict management — has continued to guide the APC through post-election challenges and governance realignments. His knack for political stability, particularly in bridging divides between federal and state party organs, remains one of his lasting legacies. In a political climate often dominated by fleeting loyalties and internal rivalries, Ganduje’s enduring relevance underscores a deeper truth about leadership — that true influence is not measured by the office one holds, but by the structures, ideas, and people one leaves behind. Even out of office, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje remains, to many within and outside the APC, the party’s moral compass, strategist, and unifying force, the man whose political architecture continues to sustain Nigeria’s ruling party in both storm and calm.

Abuja, Kano, National

Ganduje: A Resilient Political Survivor Facing Image Wars

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past governor of Kano State and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), remains one of Nigeria’s most battle-tested politicians. From his early days as a grassroots mobilizer to his rise as governor and later national leader of the ruling party, Ganduje has weathered storms that could have ended the careers of many others. Today, as fresh allegations over the ownership of the Dala Inland Dry Port dominate headlines, Ganduje once again finds himself at the center of controversy. Yet for many who have followed his political journey, this is nothing new. Ganduje has always been tested, and time and again, he has emerged stronger. The Dry Port Allegations: Politics or Governance? Recent reports allege that Ganduje transferred Kano State’s 20 percent equity in the Dala Inland Dry Port to private interests, including his children. But his supporters dismiss the claims as politically motivated, pointing out that due process was followed and that the facility—long neglected by successive administrations—only became operational after Ganduje’s intervention. Read Also: ‘They Received More in Six Months Than I Did in Eight Years’ — Ganduje Blasts Yusuf “The truth is simple: without Ganduje, that port would still be abandoned land,” an ally remarked. “He provided the roads, water, electricity, and security that turned it into a reality. That is leadership, not politics.” NNPP’s Strategy: Tarnish Ganduje, Deflect Criticism Since taking office in 2023, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the NNPP have made probes into Ganduje a central theme of their administration. To many in Kano, this reflects a deliberate effort to weaken Ganduje’s influence rather than deliver governance. Observers also point to the much-publicized ₦6 billion scandal involving Protocol Officer Abdullahi Rogo—an aide under the NNPP administration—as an example of selective accountability. “They are desperate to drag Ganduje’s name through the mud while scandals under their watch are quietly overlooked,” a political analyst said. Ganduje’s Record vs. Current Realities Ganduje’s eight years in office are remembered for major infrastructural and social investments. His administration constructed roads and flyovers, expanded schools and hospitals, invested in housing estates, and introduced modern settlements to address the herders-farmers crisis. By contrast, critics argue that the NNPP government has focused more on demolitions, probes, and political vendettas than tangible development. “Two years in, they cannot point to signature projects,” a loyalist argued. “The people were promised transformation, but what they see is endless excuses.” Strength in Adversity What sets Ganduje apart is not only his governance record but his ability to endure political storms. Despite repeated attempts to discredit him, he remains a formidable political figure in Kano and across Nigeria. His elevation to APC National Chairman after leaving office underscored the confidence his party placed in his political skills and stabilizing influence. “Ganduje is a master of survival,” said one APC stalwart. “Every attack seems to reinforce his relevance. He remains calm, strategic, and resilient. That is why he is still standing tall while many of his rivals fade away.” The Bigger Picture The clash between Ganduje and the NNPP administration goes beyond the dry port—it is ultimately a battle over legacy. For Ganduje, his record of roads, hospitals, schools, and functional projects speaks louder than allegations. For his critics, unproven accusations remain the preferred weapon. But if history is a guide, Ganduje has shown an uncanny ability to outlast political storms. His resilience, networks, and governance record continue to ensure his place in Kano’s political story. As one supporter put it: “They may try to bury him with allegations, but Ganduje has planted too many seeds of progress for his legacy to be erased.”

Abuja, News, Politics

Photos: Ganduje Hosts Deputy Governors’ Forum, Visits Ex-Minister Gwarzo in Abuja

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has continued a series of high-level political engagements in Abuja. Earlier, Ganduje received members of the Forum of Deputy Governors at his Asokoro residence. The delegation, led by Forum Chairman Charis Akomas, paid a courtesy call to the former governor in what was described as part of their ongoing consultations with national leaders. Read Also: Ganduje Hosts Former Kano LG Chairmen Ahead of 2027 Elections In a separate engagement, Ganduje also visited former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, a seasoned politician who previously served as Deputy Governor of Kano State from 2007 to 2011 under Malam Ibrahim Shekarau. Gwarzo also held the position of Gwarzo Local Government Chairman before his ministerial appointment. Notably, the visit coincided with Gwarzo’s 65th birthday, which he marked on September 23, further adding warmth and significance to the occasion. Although details of the discussions at both meetings were not disclosed, the engagements underscore Ganduje’s continued influence and active role in fostering relationships with key political stakeholders at both state and national levels. The meetings come at a time when political consultations are intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Kano and Abuja once again serving as focal points of strategic alignments.

Abuja, Kano, Religious

Eid-el-Maulud: Majidadin Kiru Greets Muslim Ummah, Urges Unity and Peace

The Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute, Abuja, Hon. Muhammad Sanusi Said Kiru, has extended his felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In a goodwill message issued on Saturday, Sanusi, who holds the traditional title of Majidadin Kiru, specifically congratulated Muslims in Kiru, Bebeji, and other parts of Kano State, urging them to emulate the values of love, compassion, and peace exemplified by the Prophet. Read Also: APC Chieftain Urges Kano Govt to Allow Court Decide N6.5bn Diversion Case “As Muslims gather with family and friends to commemorate this joyous occasion, I pray that the values of love, compassion, and peace that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) embodied will continue to guide us all,” he said. He added that the Maulud celebration should serve as a reminder of the need for justice, equality, and unity among the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians at large. “May this celebration bring us closer together, foster greater understanding, and inspire a renewed commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and humanity,” Sanusi stated. He concluded by wishing the Muslim Ummah a blessed and joyous Maulud celebration.

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

The Strategist-in-Chief: How Ganduje Stays Relevant After Power

When Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje stepped down as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), many political observers speculated that his influence on Nigeria’s turbulent political scene might wane. But the former Kano State governor, known for his resilience and deep political networks, continues to assert his presence in both northern and southern political circles. In Kano, Ganduje remains a towering figure despite the setbacks his loyalists have faced since the opposition New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf took power. He is still regarded as a political godfather by several lawmakers, party loyalists, and grassroots supporters, with many describing him as the “strategist-in-chief” of Kano politics. Nationally, Ganduje’s brief but eventful tenure as APC Chairman left an imprint on the party. He assumed office at a time of turbulence, tasked with balancing power blocs after the 2023 elections and managing the early days of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. While his leadership style drew mixed reactions, his ability to hold the party together amid defections and regional agitations is still being studied. Related: APC Chair Yilwatda Hails Ganduje as ‘Co-Chairman’ of Party Beyond the North, Ganduje has been active in fostering political collaborations across the South, particularly as debates on restructuring, power-sharing, and economic reforms intensify. His recent engagements with leaders outside Kano highlight a deliberate effort to maintain visibility and relevance on the national stage. Analysts suggest that Ganduje is positioning himself as a kingmaker ahead of the 2027 elections, leveraging his networks within the APC and across opposition lines. While age and controversies around his tenure in Kano may cast shadows, his political longevity is undeniable. For a man who has weathered storms in Kano politics and at the national level, Ganduje’s story underscores a familiar truth in Nigerian politics: influence does not always come from holding office, but from the ability to shape conversations and broker alliances. As the countdown to 2027 gathers momentum, all eyes will be on whether Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje will reinvent himself as a quiet strategist, a political dealmaker, or a resurgent frontline player in Nigeria’s ever-shifting political chessboard.

Abuja, Kano, News, Politics

APC Chieftain Urges Kano Govt to Allow Court Decide N6.5bn Diversion Case

The Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute, Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, has advised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State to refrain from making public comments on the alleged N6.5 billion diversion involving the Protocol Directorate of Government House. This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Kano, where Kiru, a former Commissioner of Education in the state, stressed that ongoing litigation should be allowed to run its course without interference. He noted that rather than dismissing the allegations as false, the governor should encourage patience and trust in the judicial process, thereby demonstrating his administration’s commitment to transparency and anti-corruption. Read Also: Kano Govt Denies N6.5bn Diversion Allegation, But Activist Abba Hikma Demands Probe “By allowing the courts to determine the matter, the Governor would uphold the rule of law and show respect for the institutions that govern our society,” he said. Kiru described the government’s public reaction as a “desperate attempt to save face,” warning that such responses only raise further questions about those possibly involved. “How can you dismiss it by saying it is a lie, despite the available evidence?” he queried, urging the state government to let the legal process speak for itself. He further stressed that as a beneficiary of judicial processes in past political battles, it was inappropriate for the governor to publicly dismiss a case that is already before a competent court of law.

Kano, News, Politics

APC Demands Cancellation of Kano Bye-Election, Cites Violence and Electoral Disruption

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the ongoing bye-election in Shanono/Bagwai State Constituency and the rerun election in Ghari Constituency, alleging widespread violence and disruption of the electoral process. This was contained in a press statement signed by Felix Morka, CON, the party’s National Publicity Secretary. According to the APC, armed thugs stormed several polling units across Shanono, Bagwai, and Ghari constituencies, unleashing violence that forced voters to flee and overwhelmed security personnel deployed to maintain order. Read Also: Abba Ganduje Distributes Over 1,000 Solar Lights to 38 Wards in Kano “Verifiable reports from Shanono and Bagwai Local Government Areas and Ghari Constituency have voters fleeing polling areas, with deployed security personnel overwhelmed by the violence,” the statement read, stressing that the prevailing situation made it impossible to conduct a credible election. The party warned that continuing with the exercise under such conditions would undermine democratic principles and legitimize malpractice. “Proceeding with the Shanono/Bagwai Kano State Constituency bye-election and Ghari rerun election in the atmosphere of utter brigandage and outright violent voter intimidation will be against democratic dictates of free, fair and peaceful election,” Morka stated. The APC further argued that allowing the elections to continue would set a “dangerous precedent for undesirable and unacceptable electoral heist,” urging INEC to act urgently in the interest of electoral integrity and public safety. As of press time, INEC had not issued a formal response to the APC’s demand. The situation remains tense in the affected constituencies, with observers and civil society groups closely monitoring developments.

Abuja, Feature, Kano, Politics

Ganduje’s Statesmanship Beyond Kano Borders

When His Excellency Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and now Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), stepped beyond Kano’s political terrain, it was clear he was entering a broader stage where his leadership would be tested on a national scale. As APC Chairman, Ganduje’s tenure was marked by a deliberate balancing act, holding together a party with diverse interests, regional tensions, and electoral ambitions. He leveraged his grassroots political experience to build consensus across state chapters, strengthen the party’s organisational structure, and maintain stability during a period when political realignments threatened cohesion. His style was not one of loud proclamations but of strategic engagement, often meeting key stakeholders quietly, resolving disputes behind the scenes, and ensuring that party machinery remained functional ahead of crucial elections. Related: Unlike Others, Ganduje Completed All Projects Before His Exit One of his defining strengths as Chairman was his ability to bridge the gap between national leadership and local realities. He understood that a political party’s strength lay in its capacity to remain connected to voters at the grassroots, a principle he had applied successfully in Kano. This skill allowed him to contribute to APC’s electoral strategies in the Northwest and beyond, positioning the party to remain competitive in Nigeria’s ever-evolving political environment. Today, as the head of FAAN’s Board, Ganduje faces a different kind of challenge, overseeing an agency critical to Nigeria’s aviation sector, with responsibilities that directly impact both the economy and the country’s global image. His appointment reflects not only political trust but also an expectation that he will bring administrative discipline, strategic oversight, and long-term planning to FAAN’s operations. The aviation sector demands a leader who understands governance beyond state boundaries, someone capable of balancing infrastructural development, operational efficiency, and stakeholder relations. Ganduje’s past record of managing complex, multi-level government projects, as seen in Kano’s urban renewal initiatives and rural development programmes, positions him to tackle FAAN’s challenges with both patience and focus. Read Also: Ganduje’s Legacy: Charting the Journey of a Political Titan From managing a ruling party’s internal dynamics to guiding a federal agency at the heart of Nigeria’s transportation network, Dr. Ganduje’s trajectory underscores a leadership style adaptable to different spheres of governance. His political experience, consensus-driven approach, and emphasis on sustainable reforms remain central to his work, whether in the corridors of party politics or the boardrooms of national infrastructure. Dr. Ganduje’s journey beyond Kano’s borders is not merely a personal career progression; it is a test of how skills honed in local governance can shape outcomes on the national stage. In both political and administrative arenas, he continues to prove that leadership, when grounded in strategy and steady execution, can transcend geography and remain relevant across Nigeria’s shifting landscapes. Umar is a digital journalist and public affairs analyst. shuaibuumaridris@gmail.com

Kano, News, Politics

APC Flags Off Bagwai-Shanono By-Election Campaign in Kano

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Wednesday flagged off its campaign for the forthcoming State House of Assembly by-election in Bagwai-Shanono Constituency of Kano State. The campaign rally, held in Shanono town, was led by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, alongside other key stakeholders of the ruling party in the state. Addressing supporters, Senator Jibrin urged the electorate to sustain their support for the APC, noting that the constituency had benefitted from reforms introduced by the present administration. Read Also: Tinubu Nominates Ummasalma Rabiu from Kano, Louis Odion to FCCPC “It is time to show your support for the ruling party with what you have been enjoying from the reforms of this administration,” he stated. The party is fielding Ahmad Kademu to replace the late Abubakar Kundila, who died shortly after being elected to the State House of Assembly. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also scheduled supplementary elections for Gari and Tsanyawa constituencies in the state. In his remarks, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation, Rep. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, revealed that the Federal Government had earmarked N10 billion for the construction of a road linking Bichi, Bagwai, Shanono and Gwarzo in Kano State. Senator Jibrin assured the gathering that President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda would deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Kano.

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