N※N

Amid ill-health claims, Ganduje''s son assures Nigerians father is in good health

Has Ganduje Been Hospitalised in London? Son Speaks Out Amid Rumors

In the ever-turbulent world of Nigerian politics, where rumors spread like wildfire and facts often struggle to keep pace, a fresh wave of speculation has engulfed Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former governor of Kano State and current National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Social media platforms and whisper networks have been abuzz with claims that Ganduje, a prominent figure in Nigeria's political landscape, has been secretly hospitalized in London, battling an undisclosed illness. These rumors, which gained traction over the past few days, painted a picture of a high-profile politician in dire health straits, far from home, prompting concerns among his supporters, critics, and the general public alike. However, in a swift and direct response, Ganduje's son has stepped forward to address these allegations, providing clarity and debunking what he describes as baseless gossip aimed at tarnishing his father's reputation.

Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, often simply referred to as Ganduje, is no stranger to controversy. His tenure as governor of Kano State from 2015 to 2023 was marked by significant achievements in infrastructure development, education reforms, and economic initiatives, but it was also overshadowed by scandals, including the infamous "Ganduje dollar videos" that allegedly showed him receiving bribes. Despite these challenges, Ganduje ascended to the national stage as APC chairman in 2023, a position that places him at the heart of Nigeria's ruling party's operations. His role involves strategizing for elections, managing internal party affairs, and navigating the complex alliances that define Nigerian politics. Given his visibility, it's perhaps unsurprising that rumors about his health would emerge, especially in a country where political figures' personal lives are often fodder for public discourse.

The rumors began circulating on various online platforms, with some users claiming that Ganduje had been flown to London for emergency medical treatment. Speculations ranged from heart-related issues to more severe conditions, with some even suggesting that his absence from recent public events was a sign of deteriorating health. These claims were amplified by opposition voices and social media influencers, who used the opportunity to question Ganduje's fitness for his demanding role as APC chairman. In Nigeria, where access to quality healthcare often leads politicians to seek treatment abroad, such stories are not uncommon. Figures like President Muhammadu Buhari in the past and others have faced similar health-related rumors, which sometimes turn out to be true but often prove exaggerated or entirely fabricated.

Enter Muhammad Ganduje, the son of the APC chairman, who has taken it upon himself to set the record straight. In an exclusive statement shared with Legit.ng and other media outlets, Muhammad categorically denied the hospitalization claims, asserting that his father is in excellent health and fully engaged in his duties. "My father is hale and hearty," Muhammad stated emphatically. "He is not in any hospital in London or anywhere else. These are just malicious rumors spread by those who wish to distract from the important work he is doing for the party and the nation." Muhammad went on to explain that Ganduje is currently in Nigeria, actively participating in APC activities, including preparations for upcoming by-elections and internal party reconciliations.

To provide further context, Muhammad elaborated on his father's recent schedule, noting that Ganduje had attended several high-level meetings in Abuja just days prior to the rumors surfacing. He mentioned specific engagements, such as discussions with party stakeholders on strategies to strengthen the APC's position in northern Nigeria, a region crucial for the party's electoral success. "If he were hospitalized, how could he be involved in these activities?" Muhammad questioned rhetorically, urging the public to disregard the falsehoods and focus on verifiable information. He also hinted at the possibility of political motivations behind the rumors, suggesting that rivals within and outside the APC might be attempting to undermine Ganduje's leadership at a time when the party is gearing up for future challenges, including the 2027 general elections.

This isn't the first time Ganduje has faced health-related speculation. During his governorship, similar rumors emerged, often tied to his age—he is in his 70s—and the stresses of political life. In each instance, Ganduje or his representatives have denied the claims, emphasizing his robustness and commitment to public service. Health rumors in Nigerian politics often serve as a tool for psychological warfare, eroding public confidence in leaders and creating divisions within parties. For Ganduje, who has been a polarizing figure, these stories add another layer to his public persona, blending admiration from loyalists with skepticism from detractors.

Beyond the immediate denial, Muhammad's statement sheds light on the broader implications of such rumors in the digital age. In Nigeria, where misinformation can spread rapidly via platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp, distinguishing fact from fiction has become increasingly difficult. The son called for greater media responsibility, urging journalists and bloggers to verify information before publishing. "Spreading false news about someone's health is not only unethical but can cause unnecessary panic among family, friends, and supporters," he said. This plea resonates in a country where fake news has influenced elections, incited violence, and damaged reputations.

Ganduje's role as APC chairman places him in a pivotal position as Nigeria navigates its post-2023 election landscape. Under President Bola Tinubu's administration, the APC is focused on consolidating power, addressing economic challenges like inflation and fuel subsidy removal, and preparing for state-level contests. Ganduje's leadership has been instrumental in these efforts, particularly in reconciling factions within the party. For instance, he has been involved in mediating disputes in states like Rivers and Ondo, where internal rifts threaten the APC's unity. If the hospitalization rumors were true, they could signal instability at the top, potentially weakening the party's cohesion. However, with Muhammad's reassurance, it appears Ganduje remains firmly at the helm.

Supporters of Ganduje have rallied around the denial, using social media to counter the narratives. Hashtags like #GandujeIsFine and #StopFakeNews have begun trending in some circles, with APC members sharing photos and videos of Ganduje at recent events to prove his well-being. Critics, on the other hand, remain skeptical, demanding more transparency, such as medical reports or public appearances to fully dispel the doubts. This divide highlights the polarized nature of Nigerian politics, where allegiance often trumps evidence.

In reflecting on this episode, it's worth considering the human element. Politicians like Ganduje are not immune to health issues, and the pressure of their roles can take a toll. Yet, the rush to speculate without facts undermines public discourse. Muhammad's intervention serves as a reminder that behind every rumor is a family affected by the fallout. He expressed gratitude to those who reached out with concern, turning what could have been a negative story into an opportunity to affirm his father's resilience.

As the dust settles, Ganduje is expected to continue his work undeterred. Upcoming APC events, including national executive committee meetings, will likely see him in attendance, further quashing any lingering doubts. For now, the son's word stands as the official rebuttal, urging Nigerians to focus on substantive issues rather than sensational gossip. In a nation where politics is as much about perception as policy, maintaining a strong public image is crucial, and Ganduje appears poised to do just that.

This incident also prompts a larger conversation about health privacy for public figures. In many democracies, leaders disclose health information to assure the public of their capability, but in Nigeria, such practices are inconsistent. Perhaps this rumor mill will encourage more openness, benefiting both politicians and the electorate.

In conclusion, while the rumors of Ganduje's hospitalization in London have been firmly denied by his son, they underscore the challenges of misinformation in modern politics. As Ganduje presses on with his responsibilities, the episode serves as a cautionary tale about the power of words in shaping narratives. Whether driven by malice or misunderstanding, such stories remind us of the need for vigilance and verification in an era of instant information. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full legit Article at:
[ https://www.legit.ng/politics/1665214-has-ganduje-hospitalised-london-son-speaks-out/ ]