Following the resignation of Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Mayor of Urhoboland and prominent industrialist, Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Akpodoro, has expressed admiration for the former party leader, describing him as an embodiment of dedicated service to both the APC and the nation.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting held over the weekend in Abuja, Mayor Akpodoro commended Ganduje for his leadership during one of the APC’s most challenging periods.
He noted that Ganduje took the reins when the party was facing internal turbulence and, through determination and discipline, successfully stabilized it.
Addressing speculations surrounding the resignation, the Mayor urged critics to respect Ganduje’s decision, which he said was made in good faith.
“As an elder statesman, he has earned the right to step down with dignity and allow new leadership to bring in fresh ideas. This shouldn’t be twisted by conspiracy theorists or opposition voices trying to sow discord within the party,” Akpodoro stated.
He emphasized that even in retirement, Ganduje remains a vital figure within the APC and a source of strength for the party. He warned opposition figures against exploiting the situation to create false narratives and urged them to focus on constructive solutions rather than misinformation.
“If a party chairman steps down peacefully, why all the unfounded theories?” Akpodoro queried. “Ganduje cited health reasons, a legitimate concern. We must learn to respect that and not pretend to know more about his wellbeing than he does. The constant spread of fake news does nothing to move the nation forward.”
In a related development, the Mayor applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for scheduling the next phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise for August 2025. He urged the people of Urhoboland, especially those in Delta Central Senatorial District, to participate actively.
Highlighting the importance of increasing Urhobo representation, Akpodoro said, “The Urhobo nation, being the fifth largest ethnic group in Nigeria, must reflect its numerical strength in the electoral process.
The Palace of the Mayor has already begun advocacy and mobilization to ensure all eligible Urhobo citizens are registered ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
He emphasized that voter registration is a civic responsibility and a crucial step toward ensuring that the voice of the Urhobo people is heard loud and clear in national decision-making.
