I’m Only A Coordinator, Ganduje Remains APC Co-Chairman” – Yilwatda Breaks Silence After Weeks In Office

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has referred to his predecessor and former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, as the “Co-Chairman” of the ruling party.

Yilwatda emphasized that he would lean on Ganduje’s extensive political experience, guidance, and networks to strengthen and consolidate the APC. Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a condolence visit from Ganduje following the death of Yilwatda’s mother, he noted that President Bola Tinubu had instructed him to work closely with his predecessor.

“My doors are open, the office is open, the partnership remains open, and the friendship remains open. So never lock your door against me,” Yilwatda said. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu asked me to collaborate with you, and I assured him I would regard you as a Chairman in partnership with me. You are still the co-Chairman of the APC. I am merely a coordinator, tasked with coordinating the party’s membership. But the party belongs to all of us.”

Highlighting Ganduje’s long political career, which dates back to the era of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), Yilwatda said he would rely on his predecessor’s counsel.

“When I was in primary school, people like you were already mastering politics. I need your experience, guidance, connections, and contacts to ensure we solidify this party and build it together to win more elections,” he stated.

Ganduje, in response, praised their cordial relationship, noting it could serve as a model for resolving conflicts between political successors and predecessors in Nigeria.

“One major issue since 1999 has been the friction between outgoing and incoming officeholders. Our relationship is a step toward solving that problem, not just in the APC, but across the democratic landscape. I congratulate you on your new appointment,” Ganduje said.