Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the newly elected National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has revealed a significant financial burden inherited from his predecessor.
Addressing the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in Abuja, Ganduje disclosed that the APC was saddled with a debt of approximately N8.9 billion upon his assumption of office. This staggering figure represents a considerable challenge for the party’s current leadership.
Ganduje attributed the substantial debt to expenses incurred during a series of legal battles that preceded his tenure. These expenses stemmed from pre-election legal disputes, election cases, and subsequent appeals related to legislative, governorship, and presidential elections. The prolonged and complex nature of these legal engagements had evidently placed a significant strain on the party’s financial resources.
Specifically, Ganduje stated, “The current NWC inherited debts and legal liabilities to the total tune of N8,987,874,663, arising from various legal engagements.” He emphasized the magnitude of this financial obligation, highlighting the urgent need for the party to address the issue. In acknowledging the efforts made to mitigate the debt, Ganduje commended the National Legal Adviser, Prof. Abdul Kareem Kana (SAN), for his ongoing work in reducing the debt burden.
Despite the efforts of the legal team, Ganduje appealed to the NEC for further intervention. He passionately requested the committee’s support in resolving the financial predicament, underscoring the necessity for a collective effort to alleviate the party’s debt. The appeal was made during a high-profile NEC meeting attended by key party figures, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, state governors, and other prominent APC members.
Ganduje’s election as National Chairman occurred on August 3, 2023, during the APC’s NEC meeting. Alongside him, former Senate spokesman Ajibola Basiru was elected as the National Secretary. Their election marked a significant shift in the party’s leadership, with both officials pledging to uphold internal democracy and strengthen the APC’s foundation.
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In his acceptance speech, Ganduje expressed gratitude to the President and committed to fostering an environment of internal democracy within the party. He also outlined his vision for the APC, which included the implementation of a scientific register of party members and a focus on effective election management and conflict resolution. These initiatives were aimed at enhancing the party’s organizational structure and ensuring its continued success.
The revelation of the inherited debt, however, casts a shadow over the party’s immediate future. Ganduje’s transparency in addressing the issue underscores the importance of financial accountability and the need for the APC to navigate its financial challenges effectively. The party’s ability to address this debt will be crucial in maintaining its stability and ensuring its continued political effectiveness.
