The recent appointment of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation regarding his position as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This development follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement made through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Ganduje, who previously served as the governor of Kano State, is among 42 individuals appointed to various federal agency boards, which also includes key positions in the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other federal services. The timing and nature of these appointments have led to discussions about their implications for party leadership.
While some commentators suggest this is an unprecedented move, historical precedents indicate otherwise. For example, Late Tony Anenih held a similar dual role in 2009 when he was appointed Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) while serving as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees. Such instances highlight that political appointments often intersect with party roles.
Critics of Ganduje’s new role argue that it consolidates power and influence within the political sphere, raising concerns about governance and accountability. This dual appointment has reignited debates in the North Central zone regarding the return of the national chairmanship position, which has been a point of contention since the resignation of Senator Abdullahi Adamu.
Stakeholders from the North Central region express hope that Ganduje’s new position might open doors for the region to reclaim the national chairmanship. Some party members are advocating for a reversal of this role back to the North Central as the country approaches the 2027 elections, viewing it as a necessary step for political balance.
Amidst these discussions, there have been rumors suggesting that Ganduje might be offered an ambassadorial role as a soft landing, although the party has denied these claims. The recent board appointment has reignited speculation about whether it signals an impending change in leadership within the APC.
The North Central APC Forum, led by Sale Zazzaga, has taken legal action against Ganduje, claiming that his appointment violates the party’s zoning agreement established before the 2023 elections. This lawsuit underscores the ongoing tensions within the party regarding leadership and regional representation.
Political analyst Chief Jackson Lekan Ojo believes that Ganduje’s new role could be part of a broader strategy to provide a soft landing for him and other National Working Committee (NWC) members in anticipation of significant changes within the party. Ojo argues that the National Executive Committee (NEC) may consider dissolving the NWC in its upcoming meeting.
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In contrast, the APC maintains that Ganduje’s position as National Chairman remains secure. Bala Ibrahim, the APC National Director of Publicity, has dismissed the speculations as unfounded, asserting that Ganduje will continue to fulfill his responsibilities without interference from his new appointment.
Despite the ongoing criticisms and speculation surrounding his leadership, the APC stands firm in its support for Ganduje. The party emphasizes that his relevance and authority cannot be diminished by the criticisms or challenges posed by dissenting voices within the political landscape.
