APC Leadership Crisis Deepens as Hafsatu Danladi Declares Herself ‘Authentic National Chairperson’

A fresh wave of internal crisis has rocked Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), as Hafsatu Danladi publicly declared herself the “authentic National Chairperson,” setting the stage for a potentially protracted legal and political battle.

Danladi, in a bold move that underscores growing tensions within the party, announced her intention to challenge the legitimacy of the current leadership of the APC in court. She also revealed plans to formally petition the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging the electoral body to withdraw recognition from the party’s existing National Working Committee (NWC).

According to Danladi, her actions are driven by a commitment to restoring due process and safeguarding the integrity of the APC. She argued that recent developments within the party have deviated from its constitutional framework, thereby necessitating urgent corrective measures.

“I am the authentic chairperson,” Danladi stated, emphasizing that her claim is rooted in what she described as lawful procedures and internal party mechanisms.

The APC has in recent months been grappling with internal disagreements over leadership structure, party direction, and adherence to constitutional provisions. These disputes have reportedly created factions within the party, with differing camps laying claim to legitimacy and authority.

Political analysts warn that the latest development could further deepen divisions within the APC, especially if the matter proceeds to court and draws in regulatory scrutiny from INEC.

Danladi’s planned legal challenge could test the judiciary’s role in resolving intra-party disputes, a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political landscape. If INEC becomes directly involved, it may also raise broader questions about the commission’s authority in recognizing party leadership amid internal conflicts.

Observers note that the outcome of this dispute could have significant implications not only for the APC’s internal stability but also for its preparedness ahead of future electoral contests.

As the situation unfolds, party stakeholders, legal experts, and political watchers alike will be closely monitoring developments. Whether through judicial intervention or internal reconciliation, the resolution of this crisis will likely shape the APC’s trajectory in the coming months.

For now, Hafsatu Danladi’s declaration has added a new layer of complexity to an already fragile internal landscape—one that could redefine leadership dynamics within Nigeria’s ruling party.