Kwara APC Senator Saliu Mustapha Dumps APC

Senator Saliu Mustapha, who currently represents the Kwara Central senatorial district within the National Assembly, has officially stepped down from his membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The lawmaker conveyed his resignation through a formal letter dated August 14, 2026, directed to the APC Ward Chairman of Gambari Ward 1 situated in the Ilorin East Local Government Area.

According to the senator, this move came after a prolonged series of discussions with his constituents, loyal supporters, political allies, local stakeholders, and other concerned citizens of Kwara regarding recent internal happenings within the regional chapter of the party.

He explained that he initially became a founding member of the APC because of its strong dedication to effective governance, unity, and public service, but he voiced deep regret that the current leadership managing the party in Kwara had strayed away from those foundational values.

“However, recent developments within the APC in our State, particularly the leadership of the Party in Kwara State, have departed from the founding core principles of collective unity and internal democracy on which the APC was built,” he stated.

Mustapha pointed out that these ongoing events had completely diminished his trust in the present leadership structure of the party locally.

“I believe political leadership must be anchored on integrity, competence, accountability and a sincere commitment to the collective interest of the people. The current leadership of the Party in Kwara State has fallen short of these standards and this have eroded my confidence in them,” he remarked.

The legislator emphasized that making this choice was far from simple, noting that it arrived only after “careful reflection and extensive consultations” involving key leaders and residents across his entire district.

He reiterated his core philosophy that political authority ought to stay grounded in the welfare of the people, clear principles, and a definite purpose.

“As a politician, I have always believed that politics must be about people, principles and purpose. Where the path of a political platform no longer sufficiently aligns with these convictions and the aspirations of the people one represents, the honourable thing to do is to chart a new course.

“I assure you that while my political platform may change, my principles, my purpose and my commitment to the people remain unchanged,” he noted.

Mustapha, who functions as the Chairman belonging to the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, expressed appreciation toward President Bola Tinubu alongside national party leaders for the beneficial connections and background he developed during his tenure.

“To the leadership of the APC ably led by H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I express my deepest gratitude for the relationships and experiences I have been afforded over the years,” the senator conveyed.

At the same time, he reassured all his voters and backers that his departure from the ruling party would not alter his dedication toward community service and representation.

“I remain fully committed to serving the people of Kwara Central, Kwara State and Nigeria with integrity, dedication and in the best interest of humanity,” he affirmed.

Earlier in May, Mustapha participated in the primaries seeking the APC governorship ticket but ultimately was defeated by Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly.