The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has downplayed concerns surrounding former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari, asserting that the ruling party remains unshaken and firmly focused on consolidating its political strength.
Speaking to journalists after leading a delegation of APC stakeholders on a courtesy visit to Buhari at his Kaduna residence, Ganduje said the visit was part of ongoing efforts to keep the former president informed about the party’s strides since he left office in May 2023.
“We are not worried at all,” Ganduje said. “We came to pay our respects to the former president and also to update him on the achievements of our great party since his departure. We assured him that we would continue to keep him informed regularly.”
READ ALSO: Atiku, El-Rufai, Tambuwal Meet Buhari In Kaduna
Atiku’s recent visit to Buhari had stirred speculation of a potential political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, Ganduje dismissed such notions, describing the move as inconsequential to the APC’s trajectory.
“That visit is of no concern to us. It’s just another attempt at repeating history, but it won’t work. What they are trying to build is not viable. Some particles simply cannot come together,” he stated.
The APC chairman hinted that the ruling party is already taking strategic steps to counter any opposition maneuvers, though he refrained from revealing specifics.
“We won’t disclose our intricacies or technicalities, but we are equal to the task. The progress President Tinubu has made is strengthening the party even further,” Ganduje said.
He also expressed confidence in the APC’s continued expansion beyond the 21 states it currently governs, suggesting that more state governors may defect to the party or be unseated by APC candidates in future elections.
READ ALSO: APC Wouldn’t Exist Without Me— Senator Hanga
“Some governors may join us, or we may defeat them at the polls. Either way, we are expanding our reach. We’re comfortable with where we are, but we are not resting on our oars,” he added.
Addressing criticisms over alleged lopsidedness in federal appointments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ganduje maintained that appointments were being made fairly across the country.
“Appointments are dynamic. Over time, you will see balance. We are working on statistics to show there’s no bias in the president’s appointments,” he said.
Ganduje concluded by stressing that defections from the APC are minimal compared to the influx of influential figures from other parties, reinforcing the party’s dominance and unity heading into future political contests.