By Emeka Blast 
National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje announces his resignation from the party
On June 27, 2025, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), announced his immediate resignation from the party’s top leadership post, citing “deteriorating health” as his primary reason for stepping down . The unexpected move has sparked intense debate across Nigeria’s political and social media spheres, with many observers questioning both the timing of the decision and its broader implications for the ruling party as it gears up for the 2027 general elections .
Background on Ganduje’s Tenure
Dr. Ganduje, born December 25, 1949, served as APC National Chairman from August 3, 2023, until his resignation on June 27, 2025 . Prior to that, he was Governor of Kano State for two consecutive terms (2015–2023), having previously served twice as Deputy Governor under Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso . His tenure as chairman was marked by efforts to unify APC factions but was also dogged by allegations of internal discord and challenges over party financing and convention logistics .
Resignation Announcement and Official Statements
The resignation was first reported by PM News and Punch Nigeria, both citing unnamed APC insiders who confirmed that Ganduje’s health concerns necessitated his departure . In his resignation letter—leaked to several outlets—Ganduje emphasized the need to “prioritize [his] well-being” and expressed gratitude to party members for their support during his tenure . The APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) has yet to release a formal communique but is understood to be preparing an official statement confirming the change in leadership.
Immediate Aftermath at APC Headquarters
Within hours of the announcement, staff and visitors at the Muhammadu Buhari House (APC National Secretariat in Abuja) were reported to be in a state of “shock and confusion,” with many seen clustered in animated discussions over what the resignation means for party stability . Party insiders have relocated Ganduje’s personal effects from his office, signaling that the transition process has already begun . Meanwhile, attempts to reach APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka for comment went unanswered as of press time .
Appointment of Acting Chairman
Sources indicate that one of the APC’s National Vice Chairmen—specifically the Deputy National Chairman (North), Bukar Dalori—will assume the role of Acting National Chairman pending a substantive election at the December 2025 party convention . Bashir Ahmad, former media aide to ex-President Buhari, confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that “one of the party’s national vice chairmen” would step in temporarily until the convention . This interim arrangement is designed to maintain continuity in party operations, especially as stakeholders focus on candidate selections for upcoming polls.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Within minutes of the news breaking, Nigerians flooded social media—particularly X—with a spectrum of reactions. Some users expressed sympathy and well-wishes for Ganduje’s health, while others speculated that the resignation was a political maneuver aimed at smoothing internal party tensions ahead of the 2027 elections . A significant thread linked Ganduje’s departure to efforts to reintegrate former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso into APC, suggesting that leadership changes could be part of broader coalition-building strategies .
Political Implications for 2027 Elections
Analysts believe Ganduje’s exit may be a calculated move by President Bola Tinubu’s camp to shore up northern support and avert factional crises ahead of critical primaries and general elections in 2027 . An APC chieftain told Vanguard that Ganduje’s departure, though abrupt, “does not threaten Tinubu’s chance in Kano” because “Ganduje is a very loyal and committed member of APC” who is unlikely to contest the party’s choice . Others warn, however, that frequent leadership turnovers could undermine party cohesion if not managed transparently.
Conclusion
Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s sudden resignation as APC National Chairman represents one of the most significant leadership shocks for Nigeria’s ruling party in recent years. While health concerns are cited as the official reason, underlying political strategizing—particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections—cannot be discounted. As Bukar Dalori prepares to take the helm in an acting capacity, all eyes will be on the APC’s National Working Committee to see how smoothly it navigates this transition and manages internal expectations leading up to the December 2025 convention. The coming weeks will reveal whether this leadership shake-up strengthens APC’s unity or exposes deeper fissures within the party.
