It is deeply disheartening to witness the calibre of individuals currently parading themselves as leaders within our political space. Many of these so-called leaders lack any semblance of political ideology, direction, or sincere commitment to the people they claim to serve. Even more troubling is the impunity with which they engage in anti-party activities—acts that should have long warranted disciplinary action or outright expulsion from the party, particularly given their conduct leading up to the 2023 general elections and their continued defiance.
Their brand of politics seeks to neutralize the opposition by tying its hands behind its back while expecting it to compete on equal terms—a betrayal of democratic ideals and an affront to political integrity.
At the very least, leaders such as Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the courageous Omoluabi progressive leader Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola have shown honour and conviction by formally resigning their membership from the APC. They have set a precedent of ideological consistency and moral clarity that many others lack the courage or discipline to follow.
The President’s declaration that “subsidy is gone” was not a misstep—it was a deliberate strategy. One that has sadly impoverished millions of Nigerians and forced them into a state of dependency, where survival hinges on crumbs from the corridors of power. This is not reform—it is repression cloaked in economic policy. A nation where hunger dictates political loyalty is one that has sacrificed its dignity. No amount of handouts can replace purposeful leadership or sound economic planning.
Now more than ever, the Nigerian people must stay the course—steadfast, united, and committed to reclaiming our future. The 2027 general elections must be our collective turning point. We cannot afford silence or passivity in the face of systemic hardship.
I have unwavering confidence in principled leaders such as H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON; H.E. Peter Obi; and the Omoluabi progressive leader himself Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and many other patriots who are working tirelessly to establish a credible, inclusive, and visionary political platform that can deliver the transformative leadership our country so desperately needs.
As for me, I have made a resolute and principled decision to resign my membership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). A party that enables and rewards those who undermine its own principles cannot be the vehicle for the progress we seek. Anti-party activity is not democratic expression—it is an insult to the party’s values and to every committed member who believes in discipline, structure, and purpose.
In the coming weeks, I will formally submit my resignation letter to my ward. Until then, I await the guidance and direction of my political leader H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON, as I prepare to align with a political movement that reflects my values and the aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Nigeria deserves better. And together, we must rise to the occasion.
Aremo Balogun writes from Abuja
