Lukman exits ADC, cites hostility from El-Rufai, coalition leaders

Salihu Mohammed Lukman, a prominent figure in the opposition, has suspended his membership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the broader opposition coalition.

He pointedly accused the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, of orchestrating hostile treatment and political marginalization that forced his exit.

In a message addressed to the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, and copied to coalition leaders, Lukman explained that his decision followed months of sustained hostility from El-Rufai and his political associates over the leadership and direction of the party in Kaduna State.

Expressing regret for his departure, Lukman stated that he could no longer tolerate being sidelined and treated poorly by certain leaders in Kaduna, particularly El-Rufai.

He claimed that he had been systematically excluded within the coalition he helped build, alleging that decisions concerning leadership representation in Kaduna were manipulated to push him out.

This development is expected to raise concerns over the internal cohesion of the alliance, especially in Kaduna State, which is considered highly strategic for the coalition’s 2027 electoral plans.

Lukman, who previously served as the National Vice Chairman (North-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), noted that he had spent over a year working to reconcile and unite opposition leaders in Kaduna, only to find himself targeted by an orchestrated campaign.

He noted that it is better to remain inactive than to chase dashed expectations.

He also questioned the coalition’s commitment to true democratic values, accusing some of its leaders of replicating the very political malpractices they publicly criticize.

He remarked that for many leaders within the group, the objective of rescuing democracy seems to be about having their own way, even when their actions mirror the destructive habits of their former political parties.

Lukman also alleged that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has been reaching out to individuals in Kaduna whose commitment to building the ADC is questionable, while ignoring the contributions of those who have heavily invested in the party’s structures.

He expressed gratitude to Senator David Mark and other national leaders, clarifying that his resignation is not a protest against the national leadership but a direct reaction to the disdainful treatment he received from El-Rufai and a small group of Kaduna coalition leaders.