APC Victory in Edo State, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje should be commended – Bala Kudu
By. Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), deserves immense commendation for his instrumental role in to recent victory in the Edo State governorship election. This triumph, where Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC defeated the incumbent governor from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has not only demonstrated the strength of the party under Ganduje’s leadership but also signals a significant political shift that places Edo back into the APC fold. This historic victory is a testament to Ganduje’s strategic brilliance and experienced leadership.
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A Victory Worth Celebrating
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Senator Monday Okpebholo the winner of the Edo governorship election with 291,667 votes, surpassing his closest rival, PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes. The Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, finished with 22,763 votes. This electoral outcome, achieved despite the incumbent governor being from the PDP, represents a substantial political milestone for the APC. It not only restores the party’s dominance in Edo but also exemplifies Ganduje’s ability to bring about victory in challenging political landscapes.
Dr. Ganduje’s Role in Edo’s Political Revival
Dr. Ganduje’s influence in delivering this critical win for the APC cannot be overstated. His leadership at the national level has provided the foundation for cohesive political strategies that align with the grassroots needs of Edo State. Ganduje’s deep political experience, particularly his successful tenure as the Governor of Kano State, prepared him to manage the intricacies of party dynamics and electoral campaigns. His deft handling of the party machinery, fostering unity and ensuring collaboration among key stakeholders, was pivotal in the success of the Edo election.
For months, Ganduje has been working tirelessly to rejuvenate the APC across the nation, and his focus on Edo State, a battleground that had slipped into PDP control, demonstrates his vision for national consolidation. His leadership was central in devising strategies that addressed the specific concerns of Edo voters, creating a compelling narrative around Senator Okpebholo’s candidacy, and ensuring the APC’s return to the state government.
Strengthening APC’s National Influence.
This victory is not just a win for Edo State but a significant political victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The win solidifies the APC’s position ahead of the 2027 elections, providing the party with renewed momentum. Ganduje’s leadership has instilled confidence within the party’s ranks and created an atmosphere of inclusiveness, which has bolstered the party’s unity and effectiveness.
This success in Edo underlines the importance of maintaining Ganduje at the helm of the APC. His ability to balance competing interests within the party and create a platform for success should not be overlooked by stakeholders. His leadership style focuses on stability, inclusivity, and a broad understanding of national politics, qualities that are essential to navigating the challenges ahead.
Calls for Ganduje’s Retention as APC National Chairman.
Amid this success, Northern stakeholders from the North West and North East have been vocal in advocating for Ganduje’s retention as National Chairman. These stakeholders, including youth organizations, women’s groups, and business leaders, understand that retaining Ganduje is essential for the APC’s continued dominance in Northern Nigeria. His leadership has brought victories in crucial elections, and his experience is seen as a bulwark against internal divisions that could destabilize the party.
Recent reports suggest that certain factions, particularly from the North Central zone, have been pushing for a change in party leadership, advocating for the chairmanship to return to their region. These efforts, led by figures such as Alhaji Saleh Mandung Zazzaga, have sparked concern among party loyalists who see this as a threat to party unity. It is clear that undermining Ganduje’s leadership could have far-reaching consequences for the APC, particularly in the run-up to the 2027 elections.
The victory in Edo highlights why retaining Ganduje is not just a regional preference but a national imperative. He has proven capable of delivering electoral successes, fostering unity, and navigating the complex political landscape. By maintaining Ganduje’s leadership, the APC can safeguard its influence, particularly in key regions like the North West and North East, which are critical to its electoral strategy for 2027.
Unity for the APC’s Future.
The APC’s victory in Edo must serve as a rallying point for all party members and stakeholders. It is a clear signal that under the right leadership, the party can achieve significant electoral gains even in traditionally difficult environments. Dr. Ganduje has demonstrated that he has the experience, vision, and political acumen necessary to guide the APC to future successes, and his leadership is crucial to maintaining the party’s cohesion as it prepares for the next general elections.
Stakeholders within the party, especially those from the North, must continue to advocate for his retention as National Chairman. It is vital that the party does not allow internal divisions to fracture its unity at this crucial juncture. The future success of the APC, and indeed the stability of President Tinubu’s administration, depends on strong, steady leadership. Ganduje is the man for the job, and his role in delivering the Edo victory is proof of that.
In conclusion, the Edo governorship victory should be seen not just as a local win, but as a victory for the APC under Dr. Ganduje’s astute leadership. It represents a broader message that with the right leadership, the APC can continue to thrive and succeed across the nation. Therefore, the commendations being directed toward Dr. Ganduje are not only deserved but necessary to ensure that the APC remains united and focused as it moves toward the 2027 general elections.
Writer, by Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu former press Secretary and SSA Print Media to Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
