“Nigeria Is Bigger Than the ADC” – Salihu Lukman Explains Why He Suspended His Party Membership

Speaking on his decision to suspend his membership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), party chieftain Salihu Lukman said the move was borne out of frustration with internal developments within the party. He, however, emphasized that his decision should not be interpreted as abandoning the struggle for a better Nigeria.
According to Lukman, the country is at a critical crossroads where political actors must place national interest above party loyalty.
“I suspended my ADC membership out of frustration. But I want to make it clear that I am not speaking as an ADC member because Nigeria is facing a serious challenge. The crisis confronting our country is far greater than the interests of any political party.
“Partisan politics alone will not get Nigeria out of the situation we are in. What is required now is sincere leadership, honest engagement, and the willingness of all patriotic Nigerians to work together in the national interest.
“Nigeria is bigger than the ADC, bigger than any political platform, and bigger than the ambitions of individual politicians. If retaining my ADC membership will help bring all the party’s leaders together and encourage unity in the interest of rescuing Nigeria, then I am prepared to do so.
“At this moment, our priority should not be who belongs to which party. Our focus should be on building consensus, strengthening democratic institutions, and providing the leadership capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and governance challenges.
“This is not about personal ambition or party supremacy. It is about the survival and future of our country. Every political leader must rise above narrow interests and work towards a common national objective because Nigeria deserves better.”
Lukman’s remarks underscore his belief that the country’s deepening economic, security, and governance challenges demand cooperation across political divides rather than rigid partisan competition. While expressing disappointment with developments within the ADC, he maintained that he remains committed to any effort capable of fostering unity and advancing Nigeria’s national interest.