Garba Mohammed
Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has explained why he was absent during President Bola Tinubu’s condolence visit to Kano on Friday.
Ganduje clarified that his absence was due to a pre-scheduled personal engagement in London, which began just days after his resignation as the party’s national chairman.
In a statement on Saturday issued by Malam Muhammad Garba, Ganduje’s former Chief of Staff, it was revealed that the trip had been planned well in advance and could not be adjusted despite efforts to reschedule.
Garba dismissed speculations that Ganduje was either ill or intentionally excluded from the President’s itinerary, insisting that the absence was purely due to logistics.
Garba noted that Ganduje made several attempts to adjust his travel plans but was unable to return on time for the visit, which was aimed at paying condolences to the family of the late business magnate, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
“Despite being abroad, Dr. Ganduje maintained constant communication with key party leaders, including Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, and the APC Kano State Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, to ensure smooth coordination of the President’s visit,” Garba said.
He further emphasized that Ganduje’s resignation as APC National Chairman has not affected his relationship with President Tinubu, describing their bond as one built on mutual respect and long-standing political collaboration.
Ganduje resigned from his position as APC National Chairman earlier this month amid mounting internal pressure, factional disputes within the party, and controversies surrounding his tenure.
Political analysts believe his resignation could reshape power dynamics in the APC, especially in Kano State, where he remains an influential figure. Despite stepping down, he has maintained close ties with the party’s leadership and pledged continued support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The APC in Kano remains united, loyal, and committed to the vision and leadership of President Tinubu,” Garba added.