London – July 21, 2025
Contrary to viral reports suggesting that former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is critically ill and battling for his life in a London hospital, fresh revelations from close associates have debunked the claims as false and misleading.
A top aide to the embattled politician, who spoke exclusively to Mohammed Bello Doka over the phone for over 30 minutes, confirmed that while Ganduje is indeed in London, his trip is not health-related in the manner being speculated.
“He is not in any hospital and certainly not on any emergency bed. The truth is that the man has been under a lot of psychological stress due to what happened recently — his removal as APC chairman and the political betrayals around it. He simply traveled abroad to cool his head off and take a break from the toxic atmosphere,” the aide stated.
Expressing deep emotion during the conversation, the aide lamented how Ganduje was "used and dumped" by the same APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he stood by unwaveringly during the most turbulent periods of party politics.
“This is a man who risked everything to help build and defend the party. Look at how he’s being repaid—with calculated humiliation and betrayal. It’s not just politics; it’s personal,” the aide added.
This clarification aligns with earlier statements from Ganduje’s Chief of Staff, Mohammed Garba, and family members who insisted the 75-year-old remains in good physical health but is taking time off for personal reflection and rest.
The former governor, who led Kano State for eight years and rose to the helm of Nigeria’s ruling party, has faced a barrage of political storms in recent months, including intense opposition within the party and public criticisms. His removal as chairman came amid internal power tussles that many analysts believe were orchestrated by those threatened by his rising influence.
Political observers say the latest online campaign painting Ganduje as gravely ill is another attempt to ridicule a man who remains one of the most resilient figures in Northern politics.
While Nigerians at home and abroad have expressed concern over his well-being, sources close to the elder statesman insist he is focused on healing from the psychological bruises of betrayal and repositioning himself politically.