Kano APC Leaders’ Absence During Shettima’s Visit Sparks Political Debate Amid Ganduje’s Exit

Kano, Nigeria – A political storm is brewing in Kano state following Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent condolence visit, where notable absences of All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders have raised eyebrows across Nigeria’s political landscape.

Shettima’s Controversial Kano Visit

Vice President Shettima traveled to Kano on Thursday, July 3, to pay respects to the family of late business mogul and elder statesman Alhaji Aminu Dantata. However, what should have been a routine condolence visit turned politically charged when government officials from the opposition New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) welcomed Shettima, while APC leaders were conspicuously absent.

This unusual development comes just days after the sudden resignation of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC national chairman on June 27, fueling speculation about potential rifts within Nigeria’s ruling party.

Ganduje’s Resignation Casts Long Shadow

Ganduje, former governor of Kano state, cited health reasons for stepping down from his position as APC chairman. However, political analysts suggest his resignation may be connected to power struggles ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.

“Many in Kano’s APC circles believe Shettima may have played a role in Ganduje’s ouster,” a political insider revealed. “This perceived interference has created tension between the presidency and Kano’s APC structure.”

APC’s Official Response

Ibrahim Zakari Sarina, Kano APC secretary, moved quickly to dispel rumors of a political boycott, attributing the absence to logistical issues.

“We were fully aware of the visit, but communication came late. Before we could mobilize, it was already too late. Because the state government was closer and already prepared, they took charge of the reception,” Sarina explained.

Despite this official explanation, the political atmosphere in Kano remains charged, with party supporters divided over the implications of the incident.

Political Analysts Weigh In

Dr. Musa Auwal, a prominent political analyst, warned about the potential consequences of this apparent discord:

“The APC in Kano has always been a powerhouse in national politics. Any visible friction between the Kano structure and the presidency could have serious repercussions, especially with 2027 elections on the horizon.”

Broader Implications for APC Unity

The timing of these events has raised questions about the stability of Nigeria’s ruling party:

• The absence occurred during a high-profile visit where party presence is customary
• It follows closely on Ganduje’s controversial resignation
• It coincides with growing speculation about 2027 presidential ambitions

Meanwhile, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former political adviser to President Bola Tinubu, has dismissed rumors of a rift between Tinubu and Shettima, stating he witnessed no such tension during his tenure.

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves ahead of 2027, observers will be watching closely to see if this incident represents a temporary miscommunication or signals deeper divisions within the APC’s Kano stronghold.

The coming weeks may reveal whether party leaders can bridge this apparent gap or if the absence during Shettima’s visit marks the beginning of more significant political realignments in Nigeria’s northwest.

Source: Legit.ng