Salihu Lukman, 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 cited a lack of internal democracy and the party leadership’s failure to implement necessary reforms as reasons for his departure. He stated that he is returning to grassroots activism to work with committed Nigerians dedicated to the survival and development of democracy in the country.
He explained, “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.
“I have therefore gone back to the trenches and will try to work with all committed Nigerians who agree and subscribe to the goal of actively campaigning for the survival and development of democracy in Nigeria.”
Lukman did not disclose which party he will join ahead of the 2027 elections, but he emphasized the importance of strong democracy and functional political parties in Nigeria.
He added, “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.
“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.”
