Kano, Nigeria – Malam Muhammed Garba, Chief of Staff to former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, has clarified why his principal was notably absent during President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent visits to Kano State.
Table of Contents
Key Details of Ganduje’s Absence
- Pre-Scheduled London Trip: Ganduje traveled to the UK five days after resigning as APC chairman for a personal engagement, unrelated to health concerns.
- Missed Condolence Visit: He was abroad when President Tinubu visited to commiserate with the family of late business mogul Aminu Dantata.
- Logistical Constraints: Despite efforts to adjust his itinerary, Ganduje couldn’t return in time for the visit.
- Shettima’s Visit: Similarly, he was out of the country when the Vice President arrived in Kano.
Dismissing Rumors of a Rift
Garba refuted claims of discord between Ganduje and the presidency, stating:
- “There was no deliberate exclusion or illness—just unavoidable travel timing.”
- “Ganduje was briefed on both visits and the Kaduna summit he also missed.”
Ganduje’s Political Future
- Health & Readiness: The former Kano governor has fully recuperated and is set to return to Nigeria soon.
- Active Politics: Garba confirmed Ganduje remains politically engaged and will resume public activities upon arrival.
Why This Matters:
- Clarifies speculation about Ganduje’s relationship with Tinubu’s administration.
- Reaffirms his continued role in APC despite stepping down as chairman.
- Highlights the challenges of political engagements amid personal commitments.
More updates expected upon Ganduje’s return to Nigeria.
Bottom Line: Absence ≠ alienation. Ganduje’s team insists his travels were pre-planned, not a sign of political distancing.
