Salihu Lukman, a former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the northwest, has criticized the outcomes of President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure, stating that it has left the Northern region in a deteriorated state. He highlighted escalating issues such as insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse as prevalent challenges in the region.
In a recent statement titled “Explosive North: Open Letter to Northern Politicians,” Lukman expressed concerns about the perceived lack of unity among Northern leaders. He suggested that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s interests seemed centered on exploiting this disunity rather than addressing the region’s pressing issues.
Lukman, who recently resigned from the APC, noted that while it may not be Tinubu’s responsibility to tackle the North’s challenges, Northern political leaders should refrain from complaining if they fail to unite and take collective action.
He further lamented the marginalization of the North-Central in political leadership roles, attributing this partly to internal disunity among Northern leaders. Lukman criticized the neglect of the North’s interests during Buhari’s administration, describing it as a missed opportunity to address the region’s critical issues.
Looking ahead, Lukman warned of escalating unrest in the North, fueled by pervasive hunger and economic hardships. He criticized current Northern political leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, for what he perceived as a lack of effective advocacy and leadership in defending Northern interests within the Tinubu administration.
Lukman also highlighted internal power struggles and self-preservation motives among Northern politicians in the current government, suggesting that these dynamics could further undermine effective governance and service delivery in addressing the North’s socio-economic challenges.
Overall, Lukman’s statement underscored the urgent need for Northern political leaders to prioritize unity and proactive leadership to address the region’s mounting issues effectively.
Continuing with Lukman’s critique, he emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity and collaboration among Northern politicians to foster development and progress in the region. He urged leaders to set aside personal interests and work towards a common goal of improving the lives of Northern citizens.
Furthermore, Lukman called for a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of insecurity, poverty, and unemployment in the North. He stressed the need for sustainable solutions that prioritize the well-being of the people and ensure long-term stability in the region.
In conclusion, Lukman’s message resonated with a call for transformative leadership that prioritizes the interests of the North and seeks to uplift the region from its current challenges. He urged all stakeholders to come together in unity and solidarity to build a brighter future for the Northern populace.
