Prominent APC Chieftain, Salihu Lukman, Defects from Party, Cites Tinubu’s Unpopularity and Need for Reform
In a surprise move, Salihu Moh. Lukman, former Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) and National Vice Chairman, Northwest, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has announced his departure from the party. Lukman, a respected figure in the APC, attributed his decision to the party’s loss of relevance, its inability to secure election victories without manipulation, and the country’s deteriorating conditions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
In a letter addressed to select APC leaders, Lukman expressed his concerns about the party’s structures being dismantled and the government’s policies leading to a decline in citizens’ income value, resulting in worsening living conditions and increasing unpopularity for both the APC and its governments. He warned that, given the current trajectory, the APC could only win elections through rigging, and the country might face upheavals before 2027.
Lukman urged Nigerians to prioritize the development of a robust party organization that can hold the President and all elected representatives accountable. He suggested that he might have stayed in the APC if President Tinubu allowed internal reforms to restore the party’s original vision. However, he felt that his membership had become pointless and saw no reason to remain.
Instead, Lukman has decided to return to grassroots activism, working with Nigerians committed to promoting democracy’s survival and development. He called for a democracy where elected representatives are accountable to the party, and Nigerians can establish strong relationships with political parties and elected governments.
Despite hoping for a change of heart from President Tinubu, Lukman expressed little hope for significant achievements during his tenure. He called on all patriots, democrats, and progressives to organize and mobilize Nigerians to save their democracy, as the APC and President Tinubu’s government have been swept up in a whirlwind. He expressed regret that all APC organs have been paralyzed, leaving virtually no functional internal communication channels.
Lukman’s defection and statements have sparked significant attention, as they come from a prominent figure within the APC. His concerns about the party’s direction and the country’s future under President Tinubu’s leadership are likely to resonate with many Nigerians.