Emulate Ganduje, don’t cling to power when medically unfit – Daily Trust

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian leaders battling health challenges to emulate Abdullahi Umar Ganduje by stepping down from office rather than clinging to power.

Obi made the call while reacting to Ganduje’s recent resignation as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He described the decision as a bold and commendable move that puts the interest of the country above personal ambition.

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“I must commend Dr Ganduje for prioritising his health above all else,” Obi posted on X.

“With his health reportedly in decline, it is both wise and honourable to step aside, knowing that he may no longer be able to render the level of service required by the party, the people, and the nation.”

He said Ganduje’s resignation should serve as an example for other leaders who, despite clear medical limitations, continue to hold onto power at the expense of effective governance.

“By this exemplary action, Dr Ganduje has thrown a challenge to other leaders who, due to health-related issues, are no longer able to deliver optimally. I sincerely hope they take a cue from him,” Obi stated.

The former Anambra governor warned that Nigeria’s problems require physically and mentally sound leadership, not absentee figures weighed down by age or ill health.

“At this critical point and difficult time, we can no longer afford leadership defined by medical tourism, long holidays, or absenteeism caused by age-related ailments. These things are taking a serious toll on our development,” he added.

While Ganduje’s official reason for resigning was linked to health concerns, developments within the ruling party suggest that intense internal political pressure was a major factor behind his exit.

Multiple sources within the APC revealed that Ganduje had come under fire over his strong opposition to the planned defection of his long-time political rival, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, into the party.

The refusal reportedly placed him at odds with some powerful interests, including allies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As the pressure mounted, Ganduje finally tendered his resignation on Friday, June 27, paving the way for a swift leadership adjustment within the party.

In his place, the Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, was named Acting National Chairman in line with the party’s constitution.

The APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, confirmed the resignation, stating that it would enable the former Kano governor to focus on “urgent and important personal matters.”

Beyond the health narrative, political observers believe Ganduje’s resignation is part of a broader strategy by the presidency and APC hierarchy to restructure party leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.

There are strong indications that Kwankwaso’s possible return and other strategic realignments may have influenced the decision.

With talks underway to possibly return the chairmanship slot to the North Central, party insiders say the developments could alter internal power equations and regional expectations within the ruling party.