Esther Salifu
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje has firmly denied allegations suggesting his potential defection to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a statement released on Monday, Ganduje dismissed the claims as unfounded, emphasizing his commitment to the APC and its vision for Nigeria’s future.
The controversy stems from remarks made by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who predicted that the APC would disintegrate, leading to the return of former PDP members, including Ganduje. Lamido stated, “I’m confident that all those who left the PDP will return, including Ganduje, because very soon, the APC will burst and split into factions, having accommodated people with different mindsets.”
Responding through his Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje labeled Lamido’s assertions as baseless. He countered that it is the PDP, not the APC, facing existential challenges.
“The PDP is dead,” Ganduje declared, highlighting the party’s internal crises and dwindling influence. He further asserted that the APC is gaining momentum under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, with prominent political figures defecting to the ruling party.
Ganduje also pointed to the PDP’s struggles in fielding candidates for upcoming elections as evidence of its decline. He noted that the PDP had to extend its screening deadline for the Anambra governorship election due to a lack of interested aspirants, stating,
“I have seen that PDP has extended its screening deadline because nobody has shown up for the contest. The extension has also expired, and nobody has shown up for the contest. So, I don’t need to tell you, it is a crumbling party.”
In contrast, Ganduje emphasized the APC’s growing strength, citing recent defections from opposition parties as a testament to its appeal. He reiterated his dedication to strengthening internal democracy within the APC and advancing good governance. Addressing Lamido directly, Ganduje suggested that it might be Lamido who would soon join the APC, given the PDP’s challenges.
