The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has downplayed concerns over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent visit to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, asserting that the ruling party remains resolute and focused on reinforcing its base. Ganduje dismissed the notion that Atiku’s visit could pose any threat to the APC’s political standing, emphasizing that the party’s priority is to continue strengthening its foundation across the country.
“We are not worried at all. We went to pay our respects to the former president and to update him on the strides we’ve made as a party since his time in office. We also assured him that we will keep him informed on our progress going forward,” Ganduje stated.
Ganduje’s comments come in response to speculation that Atiku’s visit to Buhari might signal a potential political realignment, with some analysts suggesting it could mark the beginning of a coalition against the ruling party. However, Ganduje remained unfazed, stressing that the APC remains on a solid trajectory and that the visit is of no concern to the party. “It’s just another attempt to recreate history, but it will not succeed. What they are trying to build is not sustainable. Some forces simply cannot come together,” he said.
Speaking to the press after leading a delegation of APC stakeholders to Buhari’s residence in Kaduna, Ganduje clarified that their visit was to update the former president on the APC’s progress since his departure from office and to reaffirm the party’s commitment to preserving his legacy. He further assured that the APC is strategically prepared for any potential challenges from the opposition.
When asked about any counter-strategies, Ganduje refrained from delving into specifics but gave a strong indication that the APC remains well-equipped to handle any opposition moves. “We won’t reveal our internal strategies, but rest assured, we are up to the task. The progress made under President Tinubu is only strengthening the party’s position,” he remarked.
Ganduje also addressed the party’s ambitions to extend its influence beyond the 21 states it currently governs. He expressed confidence that the APC would secure additional states either through defections or victories in future elections. “Some governors may join us, or we may defeat them at the polls. Either way, we are expanding our reach. We are comfortable with where we are, but we are not resting on our laurels,” he asserted.
The APC chairman also commented on recent criticisms regarding the perceived imbalance in federal appointments under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Ganduje rejected claims of favoritism, stating that the party is gathering data to demonstrate the fairness of the appointments process. “Appointments are dynamic. Over time, you will see balance. We are compiling statistics to prove that there’s no bias in the president’s appointments,” he added.
Despite some defections from the party, Ganduje remained confident, stating, “Bigwigs from other parties are joining us. The few who have left don’t matter in the bigger picture.” His remarks reinforced the APC’s belief in its continued growth and its ability to weather any political storms.
