Salihu Lukman, the immediate past National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for a coalition of political leaders to challenge the APC in the 2027 general election.
He urged notable figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governors Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi to unite for this purpose.
Lukman stated that unity among these leaders is crucial for defeating the ruling party and advancing Nigerian democracy.
In his statement titled “Future of Democracy in Nigeria,” Lukman stressed the importance of selflessness among political leaders.
He lamented that the APC, despite its promise to combat corruption, has instead institutionalized a higher level of corruption and “state capture” at almost all levels of government.
This, he argued, has undermined the country’s democratic institutions and governance.
Lukman pointed out that the APC, which initially gained popularity due to the failings of the PDP, has now exhibited even worse governance issues.
He criticised the APC for failing to provide collective leadership and turning elected leaders into autocrats who monopolise state resources for personal gain.
This has led to a situation where state governments operate primarily for the benefit of elected officials rather than the public.
He also slammed the current state of the National Assembly, describing it as an extension of the presidency rather than an independent body.
Lukman expressed concern over the potential manipulation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 elections, which could further entrench “state capture” at the federal level.
Lukman argued that the current political leaders, including those excluded from President Tinubu’s administration, need to form a united political front.
He said this coalition should aim to build strong political parties capable of addressing the country’s challenges and reversing the trend of “state capture.”
He stressed the importance of political leaders setting aside personal ambitions for the greater good.
According to him, the failure to unite and form strong political parties has allowed bad governance to persist, eroding the foundations of Nigerian democracy.
Lukman highlighted the need for national reconciliation and for political leaders to recognize the shortcomings of individual leadership.
He called for a collective effort to build democratic institutions that can hold elected officials accountable.
The statement also addressed the economic challenges faced by Nigeria under the current administration, including the impact on the South-West region, which is more industrially advanced.
Lukman blamed President Tinubu’s handling of economic policies, contrasting it with the visionary leadership of past Nigerian leaders.
Lukman however urged all political leaders to prioritise national unity and reconciliation over personal ambitions.
He called for a united front to rescue Nigeria from its current political and economic challenges, adding that only through such unity can Nigeria develop strong political institutions and a democracy capable of responding to the needs of its citizens.
