Lukman suspends ADC membership, alleges hostile treatment by El-Rufai

A significant rift has emerged within Nigeria's opposition coalition, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as prominent member Salihu Mohammed Lukman announced his suspension of party and coalition membership. Lukman cited persistent hostile treatment from former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his political allies as the primary reason for his departure. In a message addressed to ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark, Lukman detailed his decision, stating, “This may come to you as a disappointment. I am very sorry. I just can’t continue to bear the painful hostile treatment I keep getting from some leaders from Kaduna, especially Mallam Nasir.” He alleged that decisions concerning the party’s leadership structure in Kaduna have sidelined him, leading to feelings of marginalization despite his efforts to strengthen the coalition within the state. Lukman, who previously served as the All Progressives Congress's National Vice Chairman for the North-West region, stated he had dedicated over a year to uniting opposition leaders in Kaduna. He expressed his belief that his presence was perceived as a problem by El-Rufai and his supporters, leading him to step back to resolve the issue. "For Mallam Nasir and his people, I am the problem. I have decided to resolve the problem for them and everyone,” he declared. Furthermore, Lukman questioned the coalition's commitment to internal democracy, suggesting that some leaders were adopting practices similar to those they had previously criticized. He also alleged that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi was engaging with individuals in Kaduna whose dedication to building the ADC was uncertain, while overlooking established party members. These developments, Lukman explained, have eroded his confidence in the coalition and diminished his role in preparations for the 2027 general elections. Despite his suspension, Lukman expressed gratitude to Senator David Mark and other national leaders, clarifying that his grievances were specific to his experiences within the Kaduna chapter.

“

This may come to you as a disappointment. I am very sorry. I just can’t continue to bear the painful hostile treatment I keep getting from some leaders from Kaduna, especially Mallam Nasir.