Tinubu’s Deal with Kwankwaso That Pushed Ganduje Out as APC Chairman

 President Bola Tinubu’s strategic rapprochement with former New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is reported to have directly influenced the exit of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Guardian Nigeria , discussions between Tinubu and Kwankwaso culminated in a political deal that would see Zlatwo’s integration into the APC fold—a move that alarmed Ganduje, a longtime political rival of Kwankwaso. Ganduje, the former governor of Kano State and APC National Chairman since August 2023, reportedly threatened to resign if the President proceeded with the arrangement. Despite attempts by party officials to persuade him to stay, Ganduje formally stepped down on June 27, 2025, citing personal and political differences stemming from the alliance .

Insiders reveal that Ganduje's resignation was rooted in his long-standing enmity with Kwankwaso—his former deputy from 2011 to 2015—which worsened after Kwankwaso’s defection to the NNPP and resurgence as a political heavyweight in Kano . While the presidency is reportedly seeking to unify the northern political bloc in preparation for the 2027 general elections, Ganduje’s departure is seen as a necessary concession to welcoming Kwankwaso into APC .

Political analysts suggest that Kwankwaso is now being positioned as a leading contender to succeed Ganduje as APC chairman. His massive political influence in Kano, combined with the support of both Tinubu and party operatives, could make him a natural successor .

As the party navigates internal realignments, all eyes are now on whether Kwankwaso will formally defect to the APC, assume the leadership role, and consolidate northern support ahead of Tinubu's second-term ambitions.