Biggs Dumps APC, Says Plateau Political Space Has Become ‘Too Constricted’
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Sunday Garba Biggs has resigned from Nigeria's All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a "constricted" political space within the party.
- Biggs, a former governorship aspirant in Plateau State, stated his decision followed "deep personal reflection" and reassessment of his political trajectory.
- He is currently consulting on his next political platform and plans to announce his new affiliation within 48 hours, emphasizing his focus on peace, security, and bridging the disconnect between government and citizens.
In a significant political development in Plateau State, Nigeria, former governorship aspirant Sunday Garba Biggs has officially exited the All Progressives Congress (APC). His departure, announced via a letter to the APC Chairman of Mangu Ward II, signals a growing discontent with the internal dynamics of the ruling party.
I write to formally tender my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective immediately.
Biggs articulated his reasons for leaving, describing the political environment within the APC as "too constricted" to accommodate his aspirations. He pointed to the broader national political realignments as a factor influencing his decision, suggesting a strategic move in response to the evolving political landscape across the country. This move comes after his participation in the 2022 APC governorship primary, indicating a deep-seated ambition that he feels can no longer be realized within the current party structure.
The political environment is becoming very constricted, and if you realize your interests cannot be realized, the best thing is to shift base and follow the trend of alignments and realignments across the country.
Speaking to journalists after submitting his resignation, Biggs elaborated on the "congested" nature of the polity, particularly in Plateau and nationally, where he observed a significant influx of political figures into the APC. He stressed the importance of shifting base when one's interests cannot be met, aligning with the ongoing trend of political realignments. While he remains tight-lipped about his next political destination, he assured that an announcement would be made within 48 hours, following extensive consultations with his political movement, the Bigthings’ Coming Movement.
The main issue on the front burner for the average Plateau person is peace and security.
Beyond party politics, Biggs underscored his commitment to addressing critical issues facing the average Plateau resident, primarily peace and security. He highlighted a "serious disconnect" between the government and the people, arguing that effective governance hinges on ensuring security. His agenda prioritizes unifying communities by fostering a sense of shared identity as "Plateau people," transcending linguistic and religious differences. This focus on unity and security positions him as a candidate keen on addressing the grassroots concerns of the state's populace.
We must first see ourselves as Plateau people, irrespective of language or religion. That unity of purpose is the starting point.
Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.