IBADAN – Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has downplayed concerns over the recent resignation of Dr Abdullahi Ganduje as the party’s National Chairman, describing the move as voluntary and non-disruptive.
Speaking during a media interaction in Ibadan organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone B, Basiru maintained that Ganduje’s resignation should not be misconstrued as a sign of internal crisis within the APC.
“This is not the first time that a party official has resigned,” he said. “When Senator Abdullahi Adamu and Senator Iyiola Omisore stepped down, we assumed office on August 3, 2023. So the resignation of Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje does not portend any crisis. It is speculation.”
Basiru acknowledged Ganduje’s contributions during his tenure, including strengthening administrative structures and attracting new states to the APC. He described their joint election in August 2023 as a period marked by notable organisational progress.
On speculations about Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s possible defection to the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Basiru said there was no credible information supporting such claims.
“Adeleke is not joining our party. As of today, decamping is not on board,” he said. “Although APC is a beautiful bride for anybody who wants to join, I must say that I remain extremely loyal to Mr President.”
Speaking about his political aspirations, Basiru hinted at a possible future bid for the Osun governorship seat but said any decision would be made in consultation with President Bola Tinubu.
He described Tinubu as a strategic leader whose decisions are always aligned with party interests, adding, “I will follow any course of action determined by Mr President.”
Basiru reiterated that party cohesion remains intact despite recent leadership changes, assuring members and supporters that the APC remains stable and focused ahead of future elections.
