Salihu Lukman, a former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has revealed that disgruntled leaders within his party, alongside opposition groups, have begun secret negotiations aimed at forming a new political party ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a candid New Year message, Lukman, a seasoned political strategist, warned that Nigeria’s political landscape is at a crossroads, with parties like the APC, PDP, and the Labour Party (LP) perpetuating a political culture that undermines true democracy. His remarks have sent shockwaves across the political sphere, as he called on Nigerians to rise against the “monopoly of politics” by career politicians who manipulate the system for personal gain.
“Negotiations are already in place,” Lukman said in an exclusive interview. “Certain APC leaders who feel sidelined, as well as members of the opposition, are actively looking for a platform that will offer an alternative to the tired, corrupt structures that dominate our political space today.”
He stressed that the need for a credible, democratic platform has never been more urgent. “The only way to change Nigeria’s future is to ensure political competition is real and respected. We need a political system where the best leaders can emerge, not where power is hoarded by a select few,” Lukman added.
A Disillusioned Nation
Lukman’s comments come amid growing disillusionment among many Nigerians with the current political establishment. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has faced widespread criticism for alleged failures in tackling economic hardship, insecurity, and governance transparency. Lukman, who was once a strong supporter of the APC, acknowledged the public’s frustration with the lack of competition in the political arena.
“Nigerians have been living in a state of misery and disbelief,” Lukman lamented. “And while many are quick to blame the APC or PDP, we must recognize that our political system itself is broken. It’s not just about the parties; it’s about how these parties approach leadership selection. It’s about imposing leaders rather than allowing real, open competition.”
In his message, he cautioned against the political elitism that has plagued Nigeria’s democracy since its return to civilian rule in 1999. “The idea of ‘emperors’ running the country must end. The time has come for a truly democratic political party to emerge — one that prioritizes competence over connections.”
The Path to a New Political Platform
The question on everyone’s mind now is: what will this new platform look like, and who will lead it? According to Lukman, the formation of a new political party is not just a matter of dissatisfaction with the existing structures. Rather, it’s a necessity if the country is to reverse its political and economic decline.
“We need a political party that respects its own rules and allows for real competition. We cannot afford to create another APC or PDP clone,” Lukman insisted. “Such a party must be distinctly different, both in structure and in ideology. It will not just be about replacing one set of leaders with another. It must be a movement for change.”
However, Lukman acknowledged the significant challenges involved in creating a new political entity. “The hurdles are enormous. Will the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) register the party? Will the new platform attract enough support to challenge the dominant parties?” he asked. “And perhaps most importantly, can we trust the same politicians who brought Nigeria to this juncture to lead this new revolution?”
He also pointed out that many opposition leaders, despite their public opposition to the ruling party, have been guilty of the same political practices that have led the country into its current state. “Imposition of leaders, manipulation of processes, and the manipulation of public sentiment must end. If we don’t address these issues, we will just be repeating the same mistakes with a different face.”
A Call for Political Rebirth
Lukman’s message to Nigerians was clear: the time to act is now. He urged Nigerians to take charge of their destiny and demand a more inclusive and competitive political system.
“The strength of Nigerian politicians lies in the docility and passivity of ordinary Nigerians,” Lukman said. “If we continue to allow these so-called ‘politicians’ to dominate the political landscape, we will remain stuck in this cycle of bad governance.”
But despite the challenges, Lukman expressed hope that a new political culture could emerge. “We have faced far worse in our history, yet we have overcome it. If Nigerians rise up, we can rebuild this country. We can create a political environment where competition is the norm, and where leaders are truly accountable to the people.”
He highlighted the possibilities that a new political alignment could bring, suggesting that a new party could revitalize the nation’s democratic institutions. “Through political competition, Nigeria will find leaders who are genuinely dedicated to the service of the people, not self-serving rulers,” he declared.
The Urgent Need for Change
As the country gears up for the 2027 elections, many Nigerians are looking for a sign of hope. A new political platform, according to Lukman, could be the answer. But such a platform must be built on the foundation of democracy, not just opposition to the ruling party.
The upcoming election presents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to break free from the shackles of bad governance, but Lukman warned that only a truly democratic platform would stand a chance against the entrenched power of the APC and PDP.
“There is a growing sentiment in the country that the political establishment has failed. People are tired of the same old rhetoric, the same old promises,” Lukman concluded. “The question now is whether we are ready to take our destiny in our own hands, or whether we will continue to let the same people who have failed us continue to lead.”
The prospect of a new political party emerging from the ashes of the APC and opposition dissatisfaction has set tongues wagging in political circles. Whether this new alliance can gain traction and become a credible alternative remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the 2027 elections are shaping up to be a fierce battle for the future of Nigeria.
