By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
A Former National Vice Chairman (North West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman’s resignation from the ruling party, citing a lack of internal democracy and resistance to necessary reforms in the ruling political party, has triggered concerns in many quarters.
Recall that while announcing his resignation in a statement titled “APC and The Future of Nigerian Democracy: Letter to Selected APC Leaders,” issued on Wednesday in Abuja, Lukman had criticized the party leadership for failing to uphold the principles of internal democracy and implement crucial reforms.
“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 stated
He declared his intention to collaborate with committed Nigerians dedicated to the survival and development of democracy.
Lukman said :“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.”
Expectedly, this development has elicited mixed reactions. While some hail the move, others call for understanding in the APC.
Recall that Lukman did not disclose which party he plans to join ahead of the 2027 elections but expressed his belief in the possibility of a strong democracy with functional political parties in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of elected representatives being accountable to their parties and the need for policies that reflect the broader interests of his compatriots.
“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 concluded with confidence that Nigeria can achieve a functional democracy and produce governments capable of improving the lives of its citizens.
“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
