The internal crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Niger State took a new twist, following the resignation of the party chairman, Haliru Jikantoro, and his secretary, Khaleel Ibrahim.
The top officials resigned their positions within the span of one week.
While Mr Jikantoro announced his resignation after an emergency meeting with other state officials on Friday, Mr Ibrahim tendered his resignation at the party secretariat in Minna on Tuesday.
“I on my own, humbly and voluntarily wish to resign my position as the chairman of APC in Niger.
“So, there is no crisis like people will think, no fighting, it is just a voluntary resignation,” Mr Jikantoro had said.
Though the duo said their resignation was voluntary, party sources told DAILY NIGERIAN that their decision was not unconnected with their role during the party’s primary election in May 2022.
Messrs Jikantoro and Ibrahim had reportedly worked against the incumbent governor, Umaru Bago, by supporting the then governorship aspirant, Mohammed Idris, who is now a minister-designate.
It was also gathered that a recent congratulatory visit to Mr Idris by the former chairman was the last straw that broke the camel ‘s back.
Also, some political pundits in the state said the resignation of the top party officials has set the tone for the politics of 2027.
It is speculated that the ministerial appointment of Mr Idris has unsettled the governor’s camp due to his perceived interest in contesting the 2027 guber polls.
But while speaking to DAILY NIGERIAN on Wednesday, the former APC secretary denied resigning his appointment due pressure from the state government.
Mr Ibrahim, however, said he resigned to focus on his private legal practice.
“No, I wasn’t forced to resign; it was a voluntary decision taken so that I can focus on my private activities.” I’m a professional lawyer.
“Yes, it is true that prior to the primaries, I worked for Muhammad Idris Malagi to be our flagbearer, but almighty Allah endorsed Hon. Umar Bago.
“And we worked tirelessly to ensure he became victorious at the general election.
“And after the general elections, we have been working fine and enjoying cordial relationships, but in the long run, I feel my assignment is over, and I need to retire back to my private activities,” he said.
