The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has revealed that the party’s accounts have been garnisheed due to a massive N8.9 billion debt incurred from election-related legal battles. Ganduje made this disclosure at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the APC, which followed the party’s national caucus meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The debts stem from pre-election legal battles, election cases, and appeals for legislative, governorship, and presidential elections. Present at the meeting were President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Goodwill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other party stalwarts. However, notable absentees included former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, among others.
Ganduje Appeals for Bailout
Ganduje disclosed that the National Legal Adviser, Prof. Abdul Kareem Kana (SAN), has been working to reduce the party’s financial burden through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. He, however, called on the NEC to intervene and assist the party in settling the liabilities.
“Your Excellencies, the current NWC inherited debts and legal liabilities to the total tune of N8,987,874,663 from all the cases outlined above, ranging from legal engagements during the pre-election matters, election cases, and appeals. Some of our accounts are still garnisheed,” he lamented.
Appeal for a New APC Secretariat
In addition to financial woes, Ganduje sought President Tinubu’s intervention in securing land from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for constructing a new APC national secretariat. He emphasized that the current structure is outdated and does not befit a ruling party.
“Your Excellencies, we have formally applied for land at the Federal Capital Territory Administration to drive this project. May I appeal for Mr. President’s intervention to make this project materialize?” Ganduje pleaded.
NEC Passes Vote of Confidence on Tinubu
During the meeting, the NEC passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu, acknowledging his leadership and economic reforms. The motion was seconded by former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who praised Tinubu’s policies for yielding economic improvements.
“Mr. President, your reforms are truly ‘reforming’ everywhere. I thank the NEC members for their confidence,” Oshiomhole stated.
Emerging Crises in APC State Chapters
Despite Tinubu’s leadership, the APC faces internal turmoil in several states. Party factions are contending for control in Kano, Benue, Lagos, Adamawa, Delta, Rivers, Zamfara, and Bayelsa.
In Kano, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, threatened to resign if Abdullahi Abbas remains the state APC chairman. Similarly, in Benue, a power tussle between Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has deepened party divisions.
Lagos State is also embroiled in crisis after 36 out of 40 lawmakers voted to impeach Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on January 13, 2025, citing allegations of high-handedness and misappropriation of funds. Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda was subsequently appointed as the new Speaker, prompting interventions from top APC leaders.
Tinubu Pledges to Stabilize APC
Reacting to the internal rifts, Tinubu pledged to set up committees to address the grievances within the party, urging members to remain calm and collaborative.
“We can only build the party on a progressive platform to deliver good service to Nigerians. Let’s set up committees to look into the lingering problems in the states and appeal to these party leaders,” Tinubu said.
The President also reassured Nigerians of his commitment to economic stability, food security, and progressive governance. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic trajectory and promised continued efforts to improve the country’s fortunes.
“I am happy with food prices coming down, especially as Ramadan approaches. We are seeing a gradual return to stability and improvements in our economic outlook,” Tinubu stated.
Conclusion
The APC NEC meeting showcased the ruling party’s financial and structural challenges while reaffirming support for President Tinubu’s leadership. As the party navigates internal crises and financial hurdles, its ability to reconcile aggrieved members and sustain economic reforms will be critical in maintaining its political dominance ahead of the 2027 elections.
