Ganduje Dismisses Report of Defection, Says He Remains in APC

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has dismissed reports circulating in some quarters alleging that he had defected from the ruling party, insisting that he remains firmly committed to the APC.

Ganduje, who served as the Governor of Kano State for two terms before assuming the role of National Chairman of the APC, described the reports as false, misleading, and mischievous fabrications by those seeking to create confusion and division within the ruling party.

In a statement, the former governor reaffirmed his unflinching loyalty to the APC and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that he remains committed to the party's progress and the success of the current administration.

Ganduje described himself as a founding member of the APC, having played significant roles in the various political engagements that led to the establishment and growth of the party.

He noted that his political journey has been closely intertwined with the APC's evolution, and that he has no intention of abandoning the party at this critical time in its journey.

The former APC National Chairman urged party members, supporters, and Nigerians in general to disregard the false reports and rely on official channels for accurate information about his political activities and positions.

He also called on the various actors behind the false reports to desist from spreading misinformation about him and other party members, stressing that such actions could undermine the unity and cohesion of the party.

Ganduje reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Tinubu and the APC in the various political engagements ahead, particularly as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections.

He also expressed his continued readiness to contribute to the party's political engagements, drawing on his experience, networks, and political capital to advance the APC's agenda.

The former APC National Chairman used the occasion to commend President Tinubu for his leadership and the various policy initiatives being implemented by the current administration.

He also called on party members and supporters to remain united, focused, and committed to the party's growth, stressing that unity remains critical to the APC's success in the 2027 elections and beyond.

Ganduje's dismissal of the defection reports comes at a time when various political realignments, defections, and other developments have continued to shape the country's political landscape.

The current administration has, in recent months, witnessed several high-profile defections from opposition parties to the ruling APC, with various governors, lawmakers, and other political figures joining the party.

At the same time, some individuals have also left the APC to join other parties, contributing to the dynamic nature of the country's political landscape.

The reports of Ganduje's alleged defection had generated significant discussions among political observers, party members, and members of the public, with various speculations about the political implications.

His firm denial of the reports is expected to put an end to the speculations and provide clarity about his current political position.

Various party members and supporters have welcomed his clarification, expressing appreciation for his continued commitment to the party.

Ganduje's continued membership of the APC is being viewed as significant, given his profile as a former Governor, immediate past National Chairman of the party, and a prominent political figure in the North-West region.

The former governor has continued to play various roles in the country's political landscape, engaging with various stakeholders and contributing to the political conversations.

He served as the APC National Chairman from 2023 until he stepped down from the position in 2024, with his tenure characterised by various engagements with the party's structures and preparations for the 2027 elections.

Since stepping down from the party leadership, Ganduje has continued to engage with the APC's activities, offering his experience and insights to the party's leadership.

The current administration under President Tinubu has continued to engage with various party members, former officials, and stakeholders in strengthening the party's structures and preparing for the political battles ahead.

The APC has continued to position itself for the 2027 elections, with various initiatives being rolled out to consolidate the party's base, expand its structures, and mobilise support across the country.

Various party leaders and members have continued to engage with these initiatives, contributing to the party's preparations for the electoral battle ahead.

Ganduje's denial of the defection reports and his reaffirmation of his loyalty to the APC provide additional confidence to the party's supporters and stakeholders.

The former National Chairman remains a significant figure in the party's activities, with his experience, networks, and political capital continuing to contribute to the party's engagements.

Various stakeholders will continue to closely follow the developments in the APC and other political parties, as the various actors position themselves for the 2027 elections.

The political landscape in Nigeria remains dynamic, with various developments continuing to shape the direction of the country's politics.

The role of political parties, party leaders, and various stakeholders in advancing the country's democratic development remains critical, with implications for the 2027 elections and beyond.