Former National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress, APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, on Monday urged all governorship aspirants to step aside for Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf in the run up to the 2027 race.
Ganduje, after receiving Gov. Yusuf into the party at a colourful ceremony held at Government House, Kano, said anyone seeking to govern Kano should put his ambitions on hold to enable Gov. Yusuf to complete his two tenures.
The former national chairman commended Gov. Yusuf for being bold enough to defect to the ruling party and for putting Kano first above all other things.
While formally receiving the governor back to APC, Ganduje said, “I can categorically tell you that you are going to win the 2027 election with a landslide margin because all those contesting for the same seat have agreed to step aside and let you go for it.
“To us the leaders of the APC, this is a memorable occasion we have all been waiting for. I strongly welcome Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf back to his home.
“We were in APC together with you; it was formed with you. But later, because of political differences and redirection, you left for the NNPP.
“Now, we are thankful to our creator, you are back to our party and your home.”
Ganduje described the governor as a progressive politician, “as evident in your utterances, policies, as well implementation of such policies.
“As the leader of APC in Kano today, you embody the party’s policies.”
This according to him, this has put to rest speculations about party leadership in Kano, declaring that “Gov. Yusuf today stands as the leader of the party in the state.”
He also emphasised that, “President Tinubu is a true Nigerian and a politician who treats citizens not based on religion or ethnicity. I assure you Abba will win in 2027.”
The Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, commended Gov. Yusuf for his courageous decision to return to APC, insisting that the decision remained a lasting one.
Also Read: APC registers two million members, Yilwatda wants more
In another development, the son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar Abba on Monday formally joined APC pledging to work for President Bola Tinubu’s victory in 2027.
Abba was received by party executives, members, youth groups and supporters at the APC secretariat in Yola.
The APC chairman in the state, Mr Shuaibu Idris, said Abba’s defection signalled President Tinubu’s growing national acceptance, including within opposition circles.
“The decision of the son of a leading opposition figure to publicly commit to Tinubu’s re-election underscores the widening appeal of the President across party and family lines.
“This move is a strong signal of President Tinubu’s growing national acceptance, even within elite opposition circles.
” It also speaks volumes about Nigerians’ confidence in Tinubu’s administration,” he said.
Idris commended Abba for what he described as an independent, bold and patriotic decision taken in the national interest.
He assured him of equal rights and opportunities, stressing that the APC operates on justice, equity and fairness.
“You have demonstrated conviction in President Tinubu’s leadership. The APC family is delighted to have you,” Idris added.
Similarly, the APC youth leader in the state, Mr Jamilu Danumma, described the defection as a major boost ahead of the 2027 elections.
Danumma said Abba defected with his entire national political structure, strengthening the party’s mobilisation efforts.
He added that Abba had registered at the APC Gwadabawa Ward before meeting ward and local government leaders.
The party’s Organising Secretary, Malam Mustapha Ribadu, described the development as historic and timely.
“We are grateful to receive two Abbas today: one is the governor of Kano, and the second is the one we are witnessing today in Adamawa,” Ribadu said.
In response, Abba thanked the APC leadership for the warm reception, adding that their actions reinforced his decision.
“I am ready to work with all stakeholders and give my full support to the APC.
“I also urge party members to close ranks and mobilise massively for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” he said.
NAN
