Former Kano State governor Ibrahim Shekarau, alongside colleagues in the League of Northern Democrats (LND), has announced plans to transform the pro-northern governance advocacy group into a national political party, the League of National Democrats.
In a statement issued in Abuja by the LND Convener, Dr. Umar Ardo, the group declared its intention to provide an alternative to the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing their failure to address Nigeria’s fundamental challenges.
“The PDP and APC, along with other existing political parties, have not only failed to address Nigeria’s fundamental challenges but have also shown no intention to do so. Their governance has been marked by an absence of patriotism and sacrifice,” Ardo stated.
Ardo criticized the entrenched self-serving practices in both parties, noting that their leadership selection processes prioritize loyalty over competence, perpetuating patronage-driven governance.
“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,” he added.
The group highlighted the need for a new political platform that upholds democratic values and prioritizes institutional renewal. Ardo said the LND aims to unite like-minded individuals from the south, ultimately creating the League of National Democrats as a registered political party.
“The League of National Democrats, as a registered political entity, offers an innovative, inclusive, and forward-thinking approach to rebuilding Nigeria’s political system,” he said. “Unlike the PDP and APC, LND’s foundation will be committed to restoring patriotism, honesty, and democratic values in the polity.”
Ardo also acknowledged the recent New Year message from former APC National Vice Chairman (North West), Salihu Lukman, calling for decisive action to address Nigeria’s challenges, describing it as timely and aligned with the LND’s objectives.
The group’s move is positioned as a response to widespread calls for credible alternatives to the current political structure, with the ultimate goal of offering Nigerians a fresh platform for national redemption.
