Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC), has been given a seven-day ultimatum to resign following a formal demand by Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, a prominent APC leader.
Zazzaga, Chairman of the North-Central APC Forum and former Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council member argues that Ganduje’s appointment violates the party’s zoning arrangement.
Addressing reporters in Jos, Plateau State, Zazzaga outlined his concerns, citing constitutional and party governance issues.
“The national chairmanship was zoned to the North-Central region, yet Ganduje is from the North-West,” he said.
Zazzaga emphasized that Ganduje’s appointment to replace Senator Abdullahi Adamu in August 2023 conflicts with Article 31.5 of the APC Constitution, which designates Nasarawa State as the rightful zone for the role.
Zazzaga expressed frustration, noting that prior attempts to resolve the matter internally had been ignored.
“Ganduje is hellbent on occupying the position, which is constitutionally designated for the North-Central,” he stated, warning that the chairmanship dispute risks further fracturing the party’s support base, especially in the North-Central.
Additionally, Zazzaga highlighted Ganduje’s ongoing corruption trial in Kano State, expressing concerns about the party’s image if he remains in office.
“I call for the immediate resignation of His Excellency Abdullahi Ganduje PhD as the National Chairman,” Zazzaga declared, underscoring the need for credibility and internal democracy within the APC.
The letter, also sent to key figures including President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, suggests a fact-finding committee if Ganduje resists stepping down.
Zazzaga warned of potential legal action should his ultimatum be ignored, intensifying the pressure on Ganduje.