Ganduje Denies Defection Reports, Reaffirms Commitment to APC

The former National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has publicly dismissed circulating reports suggesting he had defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), declaring that he remains a loyal and committed member of the party he once led.

Speaking in response to the rumours, Ganduje rejected the claims outright and urged party members and the public to disregard what he described as misleading speculation. His denial comes amid heightened political activity in Nigeria, where pre-election movements between parties often generate intense media attention and speculation.

Background on Ganduje’s Political Standing

Ganduje, a former governor of Kano State before assuming the position of APC National Chairman, remained one of the most visible figures within the ruling party during his tenure. His leadership of the APC coincided with a period in which the party consolidated its hold on federal power, although it also faced internal disputes and factional tensions across several states.

Since stepping down from the chairmanship, Ganduje has continued to be regarded as an influential voice within the party, particularly in the northern political establishment, where his networks and political experience carry considerable weight.

Defection Speculation Common in Nigerian Politics

Rumours of party switching are a recurring feature of Nigerian political life, particularly in the months preceding major electoral cycles. Politicians across the spectrum are frequently the subject of speculation about imminent defections, with reports often surfacing in local media long before any formal announcements are made.

Analysts note that such rumours can serve a variety of purposes — from testing public reaction to potential moves, to pressuring rivals within one’s own party, to simply generating attention. Without further evidence, the claims surrounding Ganduje’s reported move to the NDC remained unsubstantiated.

Ganduje’s Reassurance to APC Members

In his response, Ganduje sought to reassure supporters and party loyalists that he had no intention of abandoning the APC. He framed the allegations as part of a pattern of misinformation designed to create confusion within the party and among its supporters.

The former chairman’s public reaffirmation is likely intended to put an end to weeks of speculation and to reinforce his standing within APC structures as debates continue about the party’s internal composition ahead of future political contests.

The episode highlights the sensitivity surrounding membership of Nigeria’s ruling party, particularly among senior figures whose continued association with the APC is seen as a signal of the party’s internal cohesion.

Source: AllAfrica — read the original report.