The suspension of Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has stirred controversy, with accusations of orchestrated actions by the Kano state government and the Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso faction of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
The controversy erupted after a press conference held by seven individuals claiming to be leaders of the APC Ganduje Ward, where they announced Ganduje’s suspension. However, their subsequent inaccessibility to the media and claims of impersonation by 27 exco members of the ward cast doubt on the validity of the suspension.
Within 48 hours of the press conference, a court order was obtained affirming Ganduje’s suspension, but it was later countered by another court order restraining its implementation. This legal tug-of-war has led to speculation that the situation is engineered by the Kwankwaso faction of NNPP to pave the way for their entry into the APC.
In response, the state’s APC spokesman, Ahmad Aruwa, dismissed the suspension as resolved, emphasizing that Ganduje’s leadership remains intact. He attributed the controversy to impersonators sponsored by disgruntled elements.
Regarding the possibility of the NNPP joining the APC, Aruwa acknowledged potential interest but noted apprehensions about Ganduje’s leadership. He stressed the need for loyalty to Ganduje as the National Chairman for any potential integration into the APC.
In contrast, Hashimu Dungurawa, chairman of the NNPP, denied involvement in APC’s internal affairs, asserting their commitment to their party’s growth. He praised the actions of the young APC ward leaders for their patriotism and urged them to extend scrutiny to corruption within their party.
Dungurawa dismissed any likelihood of collaboration with the APC, echoing Ganduje’s disavowal of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. He emphasized the independence and growth trajectory of the NNPP, distancing it from any alliance with the APC.