Attempt to dump ADC will diminish you” — Salihu Lukman warns Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Salihu Lukman, has cautioned former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso against abandoning the party, saying such a move would project him as driven by personal ambition rather than national interest.

In an open letter released Sunday and titled *“You can’t run away from yourself,”* Lukman expressed concern over what he described as a growing pattern of political leaders prioritising individual goals despite Nigeria’s current challenges. He said he found it troubling that figures with the capacity for public service were becoming “self-absorbed.”

Lukman questioned why Kwankwaso would consider another political realignment barely six weeks after joining the ADC, suggesting the decision undermines ongoing efforts to build a unified opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.

Drawing from his role in coalition negotiations, Lukman said opposition leaders had long agreed that unity under a single platform was essential for electoral success. He argued that divisions among parties contributed to their defeat in the 2023 elections.

He disclosed that consultations dating back to 2024 involved key political figures, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, all of whom, he said, supported the idea of a united opposition front.

According to Lukman, the coalition initially explored registering a new political party but shifted to adopting an existing platform after delays with the electoral commission. Following a screening process led by a committee chaired by Liyel Imoke, the ADC emerged as the preferred platform after internal disputes were resolved.

He explained that negotiations included structural reforms within the party, such as constitutional adjustments and leadership restructuring, to accommodate coalition members.

Lukman also addressed concerns that certain aspirants might be disadvantaged in a primary election, dismissing claims that Atiku could dominate through financial influence as unfair.

He urged Kwankwaso to focus on building a lasting political legacy rather than pursuing personal ambition, noting that at his stage in public life, contributing to a collective leadership model would be more impactful.

“The same question applies to Peter Obi,” Lukman added, stressing that both leaders have viable paths within the ADC rather than outside it.

The letter highlights growing tensions within opposition ranks as discussions on alliances and candidacies ahead of the next general election intensify.