Malam Salihu Lukman, a former member of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially announced his resignation from the party.
Lukmanโs departure from the APC comes amid growing concerns over the partyโs internal democratic processes and its failure to implement much-needed reforms.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, June 12, titled โAPC and The Future of Nigerian Democracy: Letter to Selected APC Leaders,โ Lukman cited the lack of internal democracy and the leadershipโs resistance to necessary reforms as key factors behind his decision to leave the party.
As the former national vice chairman (North West) and the ex-Director General of the Progressive Governorsโ Forum (PGF), Lukman expressed disappointment over the partyโs failure to uphold democratic principles and foster inclusive decision-making processes.
While Lukman did not disclose his next political move, he hinted at joining forces with other political leaders in preparation for the 2027 general elections, signaling his commitment to continue serving the Nigerian people despite his resignation from the APC.
He said: โGiven 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.
โI 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.
โWe 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 relationship with political parties and elected governments based on which policies of governments can be made to reflect wider interests of Nigerians.
โI 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 donโt expect party leaders will agree with my decision. I believe that eventually, we will be united will all party leaders and other Nigerians who are committed to developing Nigerian democracy.โ
Lukmanโs resignation underscores the growing discontent within the APC and highlights the urgent need for the party to address internal challenges and embark on genuine reforms to restore public trust and confidence ahead of future electoral contests.