Senator Saliu Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber, has officially withdrawn his membership from the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing an end to his association with the ruling party.
Mustapha communicated his decision to the APC leadership in a resignation letter dated Thursday. In the statement, the senator explained that his departure was reached after considerable reflection on recent political developments within the party, particularly the circumstances surrounding its most recent governorship primary in Kwara State.
His resignation comes amid growing dissatisfaction among some members of the party over the outcome of the governorship selection process. Reports indicate that several aspirants had objected to what they regarded as an attempt to favour the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Salihu Yahaya Danladi, as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship contest.
The senator said his decision was not reached suddenly or without consultation. According to him, he spent several weeks engaging with political stakeholders, supporters, members of his constituency and other respected individuals across Kwara State before arriving at the decision to leave the APC.
Mustapha explained that his political activities have always been guided by the belief that public service should revolve around the interests of the people, strong convictions and a clear sense of responsibility. He said remaining within a political organisation becomes difficult when its direction no longer reflects the principles and expectations that a representative holds dear.
The lawmaker stressed that his exit from the APC should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from public service. Rather, he described the move as a decision to pursue another political path while remaining committed to the people who elected him.
He also expressed appreciation to the national leadership of the APC, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the opportunities, relationships and experiences he gained during his time in the party.
Mustapha further assured residents of Kwara Central that changing his political affiliation would not alter his commitment to representing their interests. He said his priorities would remain focused on serving his constituents, contributing to the development of Kwara State and working for the progress of Nigeria.
The senator equally thanked his supporters, political allies, associates and other stakeholders who had stood by him throughout his political journey. He maintained that although his political identity could change, the values that have guided his public career would remain intact.
His resignation has already generated speculation about his next political destination ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although there has been no official confirmation, reports suggest that Mustapha could seek the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket to contest the Kwara Central senatorial seat under the opposition platform.
Such a move could significantly alter the political calculations in Kwara State ahead of the next election cycle, particularly given the senator’s existing political influence within his constituency.
For now, Mustapha has maintained that his primary concern remains the people he represents. His decision to leave the APC adds to the growing political realignments taking place across the country as politicians and political parties prepare for the 2027 elections.
The development is expected to attract further reactions from political stakeholders in Kwara State, especially as parties begin strengthening their structures and positioning candidates for the forthcoming electoral contest.
