Salihu Lukman, a former National Vice Chairman (North-West) of the All Progressives Congress, has urged President Bola Tinubu to address the ongoing feud between Rabiu Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, and Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the APC National Chairman.
In a statement released in Abuja, Lukman emphasized the importance of resolving the political impasse titled ‘Ganduje: Indefensibility of moral and political burden’.
He also called upon the president to look beyond the bribery charges totaling $413,000 and N1.38bn filed against Ganduje by the Kano State government.
Ganduje and Kwankwaso, both former Kano governors and former allies, had a falling out several years ago due to political disagreements in the state.
Recently, Ganduje was suspended by the Legal Adviser of his ward in Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area of Kano, Halliru Gwanzo, citing the bribery allegations against Ganduje as the reason for the suspension.
The ruling party’s National Working Committee and the Kano State chapter of the party opposed and nullified the suspension, stating that Gwanzo and the implicated party leaders lacked the authority to impeach the national chairman.
Lukman urged the President and key APC figures to swiftly intervene to reconcile Ganduje and Kwankwaso to maintain their influence in Kano and the North, suggesting the possibility of negotiating an alliance.
He emphasized the need for honesty among progressives and the importance of addressing all political challenges facing the party beyond the bribery allegations against Ganduje.
Lukman proposed that APC leaders explore options like political alliances or mergers with Kwankwaso and NNPP to strengthen the party’s support base, highlighting the opportunity for President Tinubu to showcase his political acumen.
He also acknowledged the mismanagement of politics in Kano State, emphasizing the significance of rectifying the situation for the party’s future prospects in the region.