APC national chairman zoning stirs fresh tension as party prepares for key NEC meeting following Ganduje’s exit and North-central demands reinstatement
The All Progressives Congress is facing renewed tensions over APC national chairman zoning as it prepares for a crucial National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja.
Also read: APC NEC Meeting Moves to Villa Amid Critical Leadership Transition
The controversy follows the resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down reportedly for health reasons but is now serving as board chair of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria.
Although Ganduje hails from the North-west, the national chairman’s office had originally been zoned to the North-central.
Party faithful from that zone are now demanding its return. Until Ganduje’s emergence in 2023, the position was held by Abdullahi Adamu, a former governor of Nasarawa State.
The chairmanship remains vacant, with Ali Dalori, former deputy national chairman (North), serving in an acting capacity.
Several prominent North-central figures have been floated in the media as potential replacements.
Among them are SGF George Akume, Senators Tanko Al-Makura and Sani Musa, as well as former governors Joshua Dariye and Solomon Ewuga. However, Mr Akume has denied any interest.
When asked what to expect from Thursday’s NEC meeting, Imo State Governor and Progressive Governors Forum chair, Hope Uzodinma, offered no clear answers.
“We cannot say what will happen until we get there tomorrow,” he said after meeting with President Tinubu.
Despite this uncertainty, the NEC is likely to revisit zoning, especially under pressure from party members in Kogi, Niger, Kwara and other North-central states.
Their claim is that Ganduje’s appointment disrupted a long-standing agreement and marginalised the zone.
A court case seeking to force the party to reinstate the zoning failed last year.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo, struck out the suit brought by the North-central APC Forum.
Political analysts believe Thursday’s meeting could be decisive. It is the first since the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari on 13 July, and a special session may be held in his honour.
Adding to the intrigue, the party has moved the NEC meeting from its national headquarters to the Presidential Villa, citing logistical reasons.
A party insider noted, “This is more than just a routine meeting. There are undercurrents and unresolved grievances, particularly regarding APC national chairman zoning and the role of North-central leaders in the future of the party.”
Also read: Akwa Ibom Senators Shock Senate with Bold Defection to APC
As anticipation builds, all eyes are on the Presidential Villa, where Nigeria’s ruling party faces key decisions with far-reaching consequences for its internal balance and unity.
