The appointment of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reignited debates about zoning and potential leadership changes within the party.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced Ganduje’s appointment alongside those of other National Working Committee (NWC) members and notable figures in federal agencies. While some view the move as consolidating influence, others see it as a prelude to leadership restructuring in the APC, particularly with the 2027 elections approaching.
Debates Over Zoning and Leadership
Stakeholders from the North Central zone, led by the APC North Central Forum, have intensified calls for the party’s chairmanship to return to their region. They argue that Ganduje’s leadership violates previous zoning agreements, especially as the North West already holds key positions, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Senate President.
The forum, under Sale Zazzaga, has taken legal action, insisting that the uncompleted tenure of former chairman Senator Abdullahi Adamu should be filled by a representative from the North Central region.
Criticism and Speculation
Political observers and APC insiders suggest Ganduje’s new appointment could be a “soft landing” ahead of anticipated changes in the party’s leadership structure. Chief Jackson Lekan Ojo, a political analyst and APC chieftain, speculates that the appointments of Ganduje and other NWC members are part of a strategy to reorganize the party for 2027.
Ojo noted that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) might leverage its authority in upcoming meetings to dissolve the current NWC, addressing dissatisfaction over zoning violations and ensuring party unity.
APC’s Defense
Despite criticisms, the APC has dismissed speculations about Ganduje’s potential removal. Bala Ibrahim, APC’s National Director of Publicity, reiterated that Ganduje’s role at FAAN would not interfere with his duties as party chairman. He accused critics of fueling baseless claims to undermine Ganduje’s relevance.
Ibrahim further argued that the North Central’s claims lack substance, highlighting that the region holds the position of National Legal Adviser. “Ganduje’s relevance cannot be diminished by opposition wishes,” Ibrahim stated.
Looking Ahead
As debates over zoning and leadership persist, the APC faces mounting pressure to address internal concerns while preparing for the 2027 elections. Whether Ganduje’s dual role signals broader restructuring or remains a point of contention, the party’s ability to maintain unity will be critical for its political strategy moving forward.