Absence of APC Leaders During Shettima’s Visit to Kano Raises Eyebrows

The absence of key All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders during Vice President Kashim Shettima’s condolence visit to Kano has stirred political conversations and speculation about the party’s internal cohesion, especially in the aftermath of recent leadership changes.

Vice President Shettima was in Kano last Thursday to offer condolences to the family of the late elder statesman and prominent businessman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, whose passing marked the end of an era in Nigerian commerce and philanthropy. While officials from the Kano State Government, led by the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), were present to receive him, APC leaders from the state were conspicuously absent.

The development quickly ignited public discourse, with many interpreting the no-show as a sign of division within the party, particularly following the resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC National Chairman on June 27. Ganduje, a former governor of Kano State and a central figure in the state’s political landscape, stepped down amidst internal maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections, a move that has reportedly unsettled some within the party.

Political observers note that in Nigeria, high-profile visits by federal officials typically see coordinated receptions by local party leaders. The absence of APC stalwarts during Shettima’s visit was therefore viewed by many as a significant deviation from political norms, prompting questions about the state of the party’s unity in Kano.

However, APC leadership in the state has dismissed these concerns. Ibrahim Zakari Sarina, Secretary of the Kano APC, attributed the absence to a logistical lapse rather than political discord. According to Sarina, the party was informed of the visit late and was unable to mobilize in time. He emphasized that both the party and the state government received late notice, which left the NNPP-led administration in a better position to manage the reception.

“Honestly, it has no link to any political development whatsoever,” Sarina said. “We later extended our appreciation to him (the Vice President), and he fully understood the situation.”

Despite the explanation, reactions from APC supporters in Kano remain mixed. Abdullahi Kabiru from Gwale expressed disappointment, saying the absence sent the wrong message about party unity. “Whether it was miscommunication or not, it reflects disunity,” he said.

In contrast, Amina Sani, another party loyalist from Tarauni, accepted the party’s reasoning but urged greater coordination in the future. “We must respect our leaders and their offices regardless of any political differences,” she said.

Political analysts have weighed in, warning of potential long-term implications. Dr. Musa Auwal noted that even if unintentional, the optics of a divided party leadership could embolden opposition forces. “The APC in Kano has always played a major role in national politics, and any friction between the Kano structure and the presidency or perceived disloyalty could be politically costly,” he cautioned.