Kano Governor Ganduje Dismisses Alleged APC Suspension as 'Drama on Africa Magic'

Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has dismissed his alleged suspension from the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a "drama on Africa Magic." Ganduje, who is also the National Chairman of the APC, accused the Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf of sponsoring impostors to orchestrate the recent purported suspension.

Last week, APC executives in Dawakin ward in Tofa LGA of Kano suspended Ganduje over alleged corruption. However, the state working committee of the APC in Kano nullified the suspension and punished the ward executives. A Kano High Court judge, Usman Na'Abba, initially upheld the suspension, prompting the party executives at the ward level to petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) against the judge.

On Monday, Justice Na'Abba vacated his earlier verdict affirming Ganduje's suspension and set April 30 to hear the case. The judge granted an interim injunction staying the execution of the suspension order, following a motion by Ganduje's lawyers.

Ganduje expressed his appreciation for the support of the Forum of APC State Chairmen, who paid a solidarity visit and passed a vote of confidence in him. The acting chairman of the Forum, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, stated, "We are here to affirm confidence in you and show solidarity with you." Members of the APC National Working Committee (NWC) also expressed their support for the National Chairman.

Ganduje assured that the party cannot be distracted and that they are focused on achieving their objectives. He described the governor's action as dramatic and only fit for the Nollywood movie channel, Africa Magic. "The party under my leadership has introduced innovations to make it a strong institution," Ganduje said during the visit by the APC state chairmen in Abuja.

Why this matters: The alleged suspension and subsequent court rulings highlight the internal power struggles within Nigeria's ruling party, the APC. As the National Chairman, Ganduje's leadership and the party's unity are being tested ahead of the upcoming elections. The outcome of this dispute could have implications for the APC's political strategy and cohesion moving forward.

The Kano APC Secretary, Alhaji Zakari Sarina, dismissed the latest suspension attempt as the actions of "political jobbers" seeking pecuniary benefits. Ganduje reiterated that the APC has the President, more state governors, and more senators, with more joining the party.

Key Takeaways

• Kano governor Ganduje dismisses his alleged suspension from APC as "African drama"
• Kano court initially upheld Ganduje's suspension, but later vacated the order
• APC state chairmen express confidence in Ganduje as party's national chairman
• Ganduje accuses Kano governor Yusuf of sponsoring impostors to orchestrate suspension
• Dispute highlights internal power struggles within Nigeria's ruling party APC