The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State convened a high-level stakeholders meeting at the residence of former National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, to address internal party matters, foster unity, and strategize for future electoral success, particularly the 2027 general elections. The meeting served as a platform for reaffirming the party’s unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term bid and formally endorsing Dr. Ganduje as the leader of the APC in Kano State. This dual endorsement underscores the party’s commitment to both national and state leadership continuity, aiming to leverage their experience and influence in navigating the political landscape.
The stakeholders meeting, chaired by Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, the State APC Chairman, brought together a formidable assembly of influential party figures. Among the attendees were key members of the National and State Assemblies, including Kabir Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, and Senator Abdurrahman Sumaila, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream). The presence of Dr. Nasiru Gawuna, the party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate, and Murtala Garo further highlighted the significance of the gathering, signifying a united front within the party’s ranks. Adding weight to the proceedings was the participation of two federal ministers from Kano: Dr. Mariya Bunkure, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Abdullahi Ata, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, demonstrating the party’s strong representation at the national level.
A primary focus of the meeting was to address internal party dynamics and chart a path towards greater cohesion. Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas emphasized the party’s commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity, extending an open invitation to aggrieved members to rejoin the fold. This outreach signified a strategic move to consolidate the party’s base and present a united front ahead of future elections. Remarkably, the invitation extended even to members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, a rival political faction, indicating a willingness to bridge divides and potentially broaden the party’s support base. This overture suggested a pragmatic approach to politics, prioritizing unity and strength in numbers over ideological differences.
The endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term, though still years away from the actual election, serves several strategic purposes. It demonstrates the Kano APC’s early and unwavering support for the President, solidifying his base within a strategically important state. This early endorsement can also be seen as a move to discourage potential challengers within the party and project an image of stability and continuity. Furthermore, it allows the party to begin mobilizing support and building momentum for Tinubu’s re-election campaign well in advance.
Similarly, the endorsement of Dr. Ganduje as the Kano APC leader reinforces his position within the state’s political landscape. Given his experience as a former governor and national party chairman, Ganduje commands significant influence and respect within the party. His leadership is seen as crucial for maintaining party unity, navigating internal politics, and strategizing for future elections. This formal endorsement serves to legitimize his role and provide him with the necessary authority to guide the party forward.
The Kano APC’s focus on unity, reconciliation, and early endorsements underscores a proactive approach to political strategizing. By addressing internal issues and building a strong foundation of support, the party aims to position itself for success in the 2027 elections and beyond. The inclusive approach, even extending to rival factions, suggests a pragmatic understanding of the political landscape and a willingness to prioritize unity over strict ideological adherence. This strategy of consolidation and early mobilization could serve as a model for other state chapters of the APC and potentially influence the party’s national strategy in the coming years. The emphasis on experienced leadership, as demonstrated by the endorsements of both President Tinubu and Dr. Ganduje, reflects a belief in the value of continuity and established political acumen in navigating the complexities of Nigerian politics.
