…Says leaders should be physically, mentally fit
Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Nigeria’s main face of the opposition and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has hailed the former Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, for his decision to resign his position as the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), on health grounds.
Recall that Ganduje reportedly resigned on Friday, citing health reasons.
However, multiple sources linked his resignation with the rumoured search for Senator Kashim Shettima’s replacement as President Bola Tinubua’s running mate in 2027.
There are insinuations that Tinubu might pick his running mate for 2027 race from Ganduje’s North West geopolitical zone, hence the compelling need for the former Governor to step aside as APC National Chairman.
According to a source, both the Vice President and National Chairman would not come from the same zone in keeping with the party’s constitution.
Meanwhile, Obi in a statement on his X handle, said Ganduje set a good example for leaders to follow, by quitting a juicy political office on health grounds.
Obi wrote: “I have just read a news report that the National Chairman of the ruling party, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has resigned from his position with immediate effect, citing health challenges as the reason,” he wrote.
“I must commend Dr. Ganduje for prioritising his health above all else. With his health reportedly in decline, it is both wise and honourable to step aside, knowing that he may no longer be able to render the level of service required by the party, the people, and the nation.
“By this exemplary action, Dr. Ganduje has thrown a challenge to other leaders who, due to health-related issues, are no longer able to deliver optimally. I sincerely hope they take a cue from him.
“The challenges confronting our nation today require leaders who are not only competent but also physically and mentally fit, leaders with the capacity and agility to respond decisively and promptly to pressing issues.
“At this point in Nigeria’s history, the country could no longer afford leadership defined by medical tourism, long holidays or absenteeism caused by age-related ailments.
“These things are taking a serious toll on our development.”
