Salihu Mohammed Lukman, the immediate-past national vice chairman (North-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed disappointment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s selection of ministers and the policies implemented during his tenure. In an open letter titled “Disturbing Signals: Open Letter to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Lukman outlined his concerns regarding the direction of the administration and accused Tinubu of dashing the hopes of Nigerians.
Lukman’s letter delved into various issues, including the composition of the cabinet and the implications of key appointments on the APC’s image and electoral viability. He criticized the president for endorsing Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as the new national chairman of the party and Ajibola Bashiru as national secretary, both of whom are Muslims. Lukman contended that this decision generated tension among party members and the public, particularly due to the imposition of another Muslim-Muslim scenario within the party.
Lukman questioned why Tinubu chose a similar religious-ticket approach, especially after his party won the February 25 poll using a same-faith ticket. He contrasted this decision with the notion of the APC as a progressive party, arguing that it undermined the party’s brand of politics and could potentially harm its electoral prospects.
Furthermore, the former APC vice chairman criticized the criteria employed in selecting ministers, expressing concern that these appointments might hinder the realization of Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. He emphasized that these decisions, if not addressed, could lead to more significant problems and weaken the party’s electoral appeal.
See Also: Exclude Ex-Nothern Governors from Ministerial List – APC Group
In the open letter, Lukman stated, “As it is, both as party members and as Nigerians, our expectation from your government has crashed.” This sentiment reflected the disappointment felt by Lukman and others who were hopeful for a different direction under Tinubu’s leadership.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), recently made statements at an ECOWAS summit regarding the ongoing political crisis in Niger. However, Lukman’s letter reflects internal party concerns and signals that the APC is grappling with its own challenges and divisions as it navigates its path forward.