Tinubu Instructs APC Chairman Yilwatda to Collaborate Closely with Predecessor Ganduje

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has mandated him to maintain a strong working relationship with his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.

Yilwatda made this known on Wednesday in Abuja during a condolence visit by Ganduje, who came to commiserate with him over the loss of his mother. Speaking during the visit, Yilwatda emphasized the importance of collaboration, describing himself as a “coordinator” of the party rather than a sole leader.

“The President asked me to reach out to you and work with you in partnership,” Yilwatda said. “I still see you as a co-chairman in this mission. My role is simply to coordinate; this party belongs to all of us.”

He praised Ganduje’s deep political background, expressing his intention to draw from his predecessor’s wealth of experience to strengthen the APC’s internal structure and improve electoral prospects.

“We’ve worked together long before now, and I believe that partnership, friendship, and mutual respect should continue. You’ve been in politics since the NPN days, long before I even understood what politics meant. I need your wisdom, your network, and your guidance,” he added.

Recalling a memory from his youth, Yilwatda reflected on how political figures like Governor Rimi visited his school in Jos during the 1970s and 1980s, noting that Ganduje had already been active in politics at that time.

In his remarks, Ganduje commended the gesture and emphasized the importance of a positive relationship between successors and their predecessors. He noted that the APC was setting an example by fostering unity and cooperation, something he said has often been lacking in Nigerian politics.

“One of the persistent problems in our democracy has been the conflict between former and current officeholders,” Ganduje said. “But with this relationship, the APC is showing that political harmony is possible. It’s a model not just for the party but for Nigeria’s democratic culture.”

He concluded by congratulating Yilwatda on his appointment and pledging his continued support for the progress of the party.