A former chairman of Kaduna North Local Government Area, Mukhtar Lawal Baloni, has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement personally signed and made available to journalists, Baloni cited the party’s departure from its founding principles and growing disconnect from the aspirations of Nigerians as is reason for dumping APC.
Baloni, who played a significant role during the formative years of the APC, said his decision to leave was driven by “a widening gap” between his core values and the direction the party has taken in recent years.
The politician recalled the promise of the APC during its early years, lamenting that the party had lost its political relevance and inclusiveness.
“The party, as we used to know it, represented a platform that aspired to meet the yearnings of everyday Nigerians in a noble and qualitative manner,” he said.
“Unfortunately, those ideals have been eroded.”
He further stated, “My resignation is the result of a personal and painful decision informed by deep reflection and conversations with stakeholders who believe, as I do, that the APC no longer reflects the vision we once shared.”
Naijaonpoint reports that Baloni resigned from the APC alongside several of his close political allies.
Among those who resigned are former Vice Chairman of the local government (2012–2014), Dahiru Abdullahi Maidace, a former Chief of Staff, Ghali Mohammed Waziri, as well as several former advisers, councillors, and grassroots party leaders who have served within the APC framework in Kaduna North.
He noted that the collective decision of his associates reflects a broader dissatisfaction within the ranks of the party at the local level.
In his parting remarks, Baloni called for the emergence of a new political movement anchored on justice, equity, and genuine service to the people.
“It’s time to chart a new path, one that prioritizes people-centered governance and gives voice to the voiceless. We need a platform that truly understands and serves the grassroots,” he said.
Naijaonpoint reports that Baloni’s exit adds to a growing list of defections rocking the APC in Kaduna State. The trend intensified following the defection of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who recently dumped the APC for the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai, who is said to be playing a key role in mobilising opposition figures, is reportedly considering full integration into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a party many say may serve as the coalition’s next political platform.
APC Reacts To Baloni’s Resignation
Reacting to the development, the Publicity Secretary of the APC in Kaduna State, Salisu Tanko Wusono, dismissed the significance of Baloni’s resignation, stating that political realignments are normal in a democracy.
“Our focus in the APC is to strengthen the relationship between the party and the people of Kaduna State,” Wusono said.
“We were not elected without making promises to them, and we are committed to fulfilling those promises.”
On Baloni’s departure, Wusono added, “There is no fault in someone feeling that their personal opinion no longer aligns with that of the people of Kaduna. If he wants to leave, there’s nothing you can do about it.”
The APC spokesperson maintained that the party remains strong and continues to command support from the majority in the state.