Former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West) Salihu Lukman has suggested that President Bola Tinubu’s recent actions indicate a lack of interest in pursuing a second term. Lukman stated that both Tinubu and the APC are on a path that could lead to their defeat in the 2027 presidential elections, and he urged Nigerians to ensure they experience this loss.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Lukman referenced the removal of Borno South Senator Ali Ndume as the Senate Chief Whip as evidence of the administration’s intolerance of criticism. He expressed concern that the Tinubu administration and the ruling APC are steering Nigeria towards a form of dictatorial governance reminiscent of the military rule under General Sani Abacha.
Titled “Fanatical Mindset,” Lukman’s statement lamented the threat to free speech and the encroachment on citizens’ personal liberties. He criticized the Senate for compromising its independence by succumbing to a letter from APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje that called for Ndume’s removal. Lukman argued that the APC Constitution does not grant the National Chairman, National Secretary, or any official the authority to unilaterally remove a principal officer of the National Assembly.
He condemned the involvement of the APC and the Senate Caucus in what he termed an act of illegality, calling it a shameful episode.
He said: “The way things are, it is almost as if President Asiwaju Tinubu has resolved that he will only be a one term President. Under his watch, the living conditions of Nigerians is continuously getting worse. Instead of making effort to develop clear plans to address the situation, the government is becoming more intolerant to criticism.
