Babafemi Ojudu, a former senator and a senior figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has publicly questioned the legitimacy of Abdullahi Ganduje’s recent return to public life just days after stepping down from his position as APC National Chairman citing health concerns.
Ojudu, who represented Ekiti Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2015 and previously served as political adviser to former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, raised doubts over the former chairman’s stated reasons for resigning. He voiced his skepticism through a statement published on his LinkedIn page, drawing attention to the short time between Ganduje’s resignation and his new political appointment.
Controversial Resignation Followed by New Appointment
Ganduje formally resigned as APC National Chairman on 27 June 2025. His resignation letter pointed to health-related issues as the reason behind his decision. However, several sources familiar with the party’s internal dynamics suggest that the move may have been prompted more by internal party conflicts and lingering corruption allegations than by actual health problems.
Following his resignation, Ganduje was swiftly replaced by Ali Dalori, the former deputy national chairman (North). His tenure as APC chairman, which began in August 2023, was marred by multiple controversies. Notably, some APC members, particularly those contesting local positions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reportedly accused his office of demanding excessive fees for party nomination tickets.
Despite his stated health issues, Ganduje was appointed as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) less than three weeks after stepping down. The appointment was officiated by Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Public Scrutiny Over Recovery and Political Integrity
Ojudu questioned the credibility of Ganduje’s initial health claim, expressing doubt over the sudden turnaround. He suggested that the health excuse may have been a smokescreen for political maneuvering or an attempt to escape accountability. His comments reflect growing concern among party members and the broader public regarding transparency and integrity in the party’s leadership.
He also highlighted the broader implications of such swift political transitions, suggesting that the system lacks openness and accountability. Ganduje’s rapid re-entry into a high-level federal appointment has reignited debate about how political appointments are used as compensation tools within the Nigerian political landscape.
Political Culture Under Fire
Ganduje’s new role at FAAN, though technically non-political, is viewed by many as part of a wider pattern in Nigerian governance where strategic federal appointments are awarded to loyalists, regardless of recent controversies.
Ojudu’s reaction reflects a growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party and among Nigerians who are increasingly calling for greater transparency and ethical leadership. The incident has underscored the need for stronger accountability mechanisms in both party politics and public appointments
The former senator’s critical stance adds to the mounting pressure on political figures to uphold accountability and sincerity in their public roles. As questions swirl around Ganduje’s resignation and rapid return, the incident highlights the persistent concerns about credibility and trust in Nigeria’s political system.
