Salihu Mohammed Lukman, a distinguished former vice chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the North-West, has announced his departure from the party.
Lukman, who previously served on the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), stated on Wednesday that his decision to leave was due to the party’s perceived absence of internal democracy and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged refusal to implement reforms within the party.
The APC stalwart has been a vocal critic of the party leadership, accusing them of abandoning the party’s founding principles and resisting necessary reforms. He declared that he has returned to grassroots politics to collaborate with other political leaders in the fight for the preservation of democracy in Nigeria.
Lukman expressed that staying in the APC would only be feasible if President Asiwaju Tinubu were to permit internal reforms that would restore the party to its original vision, a prospect he currently views as unlikely. He stated, “My current reality within the party is that my membership has become futile, and there is no reason for me to continue to force my presence.”
He further announced his return to grassroots politics and his intention to collaborate with all Nigerians who are committed to actively advocating for the survival and growth of democracy in Nigeria. He emphasized the need to develop our democracy to a point where elected representatives at all levels are accountable to the party and where Nigerians, represented by various interests, can establish strong relationships with political parties and elected governments. This, he believes, will enable government policies to better reflect the broader interests of Nigerians.
Lukman expressed confidence in the possibility of a robust democracy with functional political parties in Nigeria. He also expressed optimism that, within our lifetime, we can establish governments that are genuinely capable of improving the lives of Nigerians.
While he does not anticipate agreement from party leaders regarding his decision, he remains hopeful that unity will eventually be achieved with all party leaders and other Nigerians who are dedicated to the development of Nigerian democracy.
