President Tinubu Engages in Private Consultations with Former Northern Governors
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conducted separate closed-door meetings with two prominent former governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The discussions took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, involving Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the former governor of Kano State and ex-APC National Chairman, and Badaru Abubakar, former governor of Jigawa State and former Minister of Defence.
Details of the Meetings and Political Context
The meetings occurred against a backdrop of significant political realignments in northern Nigeria. Notably, these consultations followed the defection of key political figures, including Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, a former New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) chieftain and ex-Kano deputy governor Nasiru Gawuna, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reports indicate that some lawmakers from Kano State are also considering joining Kwankwaso in the ADC, adding to the political turbulence.
Ganduje departed the State House at approximately 4:15 PM, with Badaru leaving about 15 minutes later at 4:30 PM. Both former governors declined to speak with journalists regarding the purpose of their visits, suggesting the discussions were private and potentially sensitive. The staggered exits implied that the meetings were individual consultations rather than a joint session, highlighting their personalized nature.
Potential Motivations and Broader Implications
Analysts speculate that the visits may be linked to the ongoing defection surge in Kano and Jigawa states, as well as the reorganization efforts within the APC following its recent national convention. There are indications that some APC chieftains loyal to Badaru might be considering a move to the ADC, partly due to internal crises with Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi. This political maneuvering underscores the fluid dynamics within Nigeria's political landscape as parties position themselves ahead of future elections.
In a related development, eight Kano House of Representatives members officially switched allegiance from the NNPP to the APC during a plenary session on the same day, March 31, 2026. This defection was announced in the Green Chamber under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, with Governor Abba Yusuf and former Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano State witnessing the transition. These events collectively point to a period of intense political activity and realignment in the region.
The meetings with President Tinubu are seen as strategic moves to address these shifts and consolidate support within the APC. As defections continue to reshape political alliances, such high-level consultations are crucial for maintaining party cohesion and navigating the complex electoral environment. The outcomes of these talks could influence future political strategies and party stability in northern Nigeria.
