Former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, and his colleagues in the League of Northern Democrats (LND) have announced plans to transform the group into a political party to challenge the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The group, which began as a pro-northern movement advocating governance reforms, aims to evolve into the League of National Democrats (LND), incorporating individuals from Southern Nigeria.
In a statement released in Abuja, LND Convener, Dr. Umar Ardo, criticized the APC and PDP for governance failures. “The PDP and APC, along with other existing political parties, have not only failed to address Nigeria’s fundamental challenges but have also, over the years, shown no sign or intention to ever do so,” Ardo said.
He accused the major parties of fostering a system marked by self-service and dishonesty. “The methods of governance have been characterized by an absence of patriotism and sacrifice. These parties have become instruments of imposition, where leadership selection is driven by personal ambition and manipulation, rather than merit or democratic consensus,” he added.
Ardo argued that the internal structures of both parties reward loyalty over competence, leading to governance that prioritizes patronage instead of the public interest.
He described the socio-economic consequences, stating, “This trajectory has resulted in deepening poverty, heightened insecurity, eroded public trust, and a national psyche weighed down by despair and cynicism. Clearly, Nigeria’s progress demands a radical departure from this failing paradigm.”
The LND’s agenda includes addressing systemic problems such as endemic poverty, insecurity, institutional decay, and corruption. Referring to the New Year message from Salihu Lukman, former APC National Vice Chairman (North West), which called for decisive action, Ardo remarked, “This clarion call resonates deeply with the aspirations of many Nigerians yearning for a break from the vicious cycle of ineffectual governance.”
The LND plans to expand its reach to the South and merge into a unified League of National Democrats as a registered political party. “Rooted in democratic values and committed to institutional renewal, the LND represents a beacon of hope for a country at the crossroads of decline and resurgence,” Ardo said.
He emphasized the League’s commitment to restoring patriotism, honesty, and democratic values, adding, “Unlike the PDP and APC, LND’s foundation will uniquely position it to deliver the credible change Nigerians desperately seek.”
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