Salihu Lukman, the former National Vice Chairman (North West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has resigned from the ruling party.
Lukman announced his resignation in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, titled “APC and The Future of Nigerian Democracy: Letter to Selected APC Leaders.”
Lukman attributed his resignation to the lack of internal democracy within the party and the leadership’s inability to implement much-needed reforms. He expressed his frustration with the current state of the APC, stating that his membership had become “useless” under the present conditions.
“Given all this, it is possible to remain in APC if at all President Tinubu will allow internal reform in the party to return it to its founding vision, which as it is, is very remote. But my reality now in the party is that my membership has been rendered useless, and there is no need for me to continue to impose myself,” Lukman said.
Lukman declared his intention to return to the trenches and work with Nigerians committed to the survival and development of democracy. He emphasized the importance of strong democracy and functional political parties in Nigeria.
“We must grow our democracy to the point whereby elected representatives at all levels are accountable to the party and it is possible for Nigerians represented by various interests to develop strong relationships with political parties and elected governments based on which policies of governments can be made to reflect wider interests of Nigerians,” Lukman added.
Lukman did not disclose which party he will join ahead of the 2027 elections but expressed confidence in the possibility of producing governments capable of improving the lives of Nigerians.
He also expressed hope for future unity with party leaders and other Nigerians dedicated to developing democracy in the country.
“I am confident that a strong democracy with functional political parties is possible in Nigeria. I am also confident that in our lifetime, we can produce governments that are truly capable of making the lives of Nigerians better. I don’t expect party leaders will agree with my decision. I believe that eventually, we will be united with all party leaders and other Nigerians who are committed to developing Nigerian democracy,” he concluded.
