In a significant political development, Senator Ibrahim Lamido, who represents the Sokoto East Senatorial District, has resigned his membership from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The resignation, dated April 22, 2025, was addressed to his ward chairman in Isa South, Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Reasons for Resignation
In his resignation letter, Senator Lamido described the decision as difficult but necessary due to what he termed “the ongoing internal party crisis, suspicion, and unfair party leadership style within the party in Sokoto State.” He noted that these factors have made it increasingly challenging for him to continue his membership in good conscience. He also highlighted a lack of cohesion, division, and unresolved issues that he believes are hindering the progress of the APC in the northwestern state. Despite his departure, he expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to contribute his quota.
Context of the Resignation
This event comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially commenced activities for the 2027 general elections, with the window for party primaries now open. Senator Lamido’s resignation has sparked reactions from Nigerians on social media.
Public Reactions
- Naija boi alleged that the resignation was a plot to destabilize the opposition: “Don't fall for this. When Tinubu said he'll cause confusion in the ADC, this is what he meant, APC members resigning and joining the ADC to go and cause problems there, Nigerians, let's be vigilant.”
- Annadiotu questioned the senator’s strategy: “Some of these men are not calculative. How they managed to get to this topmost level is something to be studied. Leaving APC means you ain't getting a return ticket, right? Now, how sure are you that you'll get the ticket for ADC? Because that's the only party in Nigeria.”
- Diogenes predicted a shift in political power: “It’s happening. It’s actually happening. I make a bold prediction. By July this year. APC will be a party of 31 governors and small players. ADC will have all the big impact players. A few former presidents and international figures will throw their weight behind them.”
- Nonso rejected the senator’s justification: “You resigned not because of the terrible governance and total lack of the rule of law under the APC, but because of the internal party affairs? We don’t buy this resignation, sir. Your party have failed woefully, and Nigerians will never forget.”
Senator Lamido’s departure from the APC marks a notable shift in the political landscape of Sokoto State and could have implications for the party’s strength in the region ahead of the 2027 elections.
