The political landscape in Nigeria is no stranger to rumors and speculation, but recent developments have thrust the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, into the center of an unfounded controversy.
In a swift response to campaign posters circulating on social media, which suggest that Ganduje intends to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, the APC leader has firmly denounced the claims as baseless and the work of mischief-makers.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje made it clear that the posters, which also purportedly feature Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma as his running mate, are entirely fabricated. The statement emphasized that these claims are not only false but also malicious, aimed at sowing discord within the ruling party.
“This is to inform the general public that the poster currently circulating on social media, claiming that the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is contesting for the presidency in 2027 with Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, as his running mate, is entirely false and a malicious piece of fake news,” the statement read.
Ganduje’s camp has pointed fingers at what they describe as “mischief-makers,” possibly aligned with the Kwankwassiyya movement, a political faction associated with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. The accusation suggests a deliberate attempt to create a rift between Ganduje and President Tinubu, potentially destabilizing the party’s unity at a time when the APC is striving to maintain its grip on power.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje remains unwaveringly loyal to President Tinubu and is fully committed to supporting the President’s vision and leadership,” the statement continued. “Dr. Ganduje believes that President Tinubu is on the right trajectory to steer Nigeria towards greater prosperity and unity.”
The APC has urged the public to disregard the rumors and avoid spreading unverified information that could further inflame tensions within the party or between its leaders. The quick dismissal of these rumors highlights the delicate balance of power within the APC and the importance of unity as the party looks ahead to the 2027 elections.
As Nigeria’s political scene continues to evolve, it is essential for the public and party members alike to remain vigilant against the spread of fake news, which can have serious implications for the stability of the nation’s democracy. The incident also underscores the need for clear communication from political leaders and their teams to counter misinformation and maintain public trust.
In a political environment as dynamic as Nigeria’s, rumors like these are likely to surface again. However, the response from Ganduje’s camp serves as a reminder that loyalty and solidarity within the APC remain critical as the party navigates the challenges of governance and future electoral contests.
