Former National Vice Chairman (North West) of the All Progressives Congress, Salihu Lukman, has expressed his disappointment with the party’s performance in fulfilling its campaign promises.
In an interview with Arise TV on Monday, Lukman criticized the APC’s handling of key issues such as security, economic stability, and anti-corruption efforts. His remarks follow his recent resignation from the party.
Lukman did not hold back in his assessment of the APC’s achievements under President Buhari’s administration. He stated, “I admit that in terms of meeting up with our campaign promises, we have done badly, no doubt about it.” He elaborated that the APC had failed to deliver on its promises regarding security, the economy, and the fight against corruption, adding that people are justified in comparing the APC unfavorably to the PDP.
Lukman also commented on his initial optimism for change with the new leadership, saying, “That’s why I was practically very very confident that he would not really do business as usual the way President Buhari did. Unfortunately, here we are. He’s doing business as usual. And as it is, we are going to end up in a worse situation.”
One of Lukman’s significant criticisms was aimed at President Tinubu’s decision to abruptly end the petroleum subsidy without adequate planning. Lukman noted, “One of the biggest mistakes that President Asiwaju made was making that declaration on his inauguration day, declaring petroleum subsidy is gone without even sitting down to put up a plan.” He emphasized that this lack of foresight has worsened living conditions in Nigeria.
Furthermore, Lukman highlighted his frustration with the APC’s major infrastructure spending, such as the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, at the expense of more urgent needs in education and health. He argued, “Spending 15 trillion naira on Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Imagine if a fraction of that amount is invested in education and in terms of education, we talk about 10 million out-of-school children in the North.” He stressed the importance of investing in education and social welfare to improve living conditions and reduce insecurity.
Lukman warned that without significant changes, the APC might face severe political consequences, including the potential election of a worse successor to President Tinubu in 2027 due to public frustration and anger. He concluded by emphasizing the need for a fundamental shift in priorities to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges effectively.
