Salihu Lukman: Buhari’s Death Ends Era of Automatic Electoral Victory via Endorsement

Mallam Salihu Lukman, a former APC National Vice Chairman and now a key figure in the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, has declared that the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari marks the definitive end of an era in Nigerian politics, specifically, an era where Buhari’s endorsement often guaranteed victory at the polls.

Appearing on Arise Television on Wednesday, Lukman stated that even before Buhari’s passing, his once-unshakable influence had been waning. 

Lukman urged fellow ADC coalition leaders to seize this turning point and work together to form a strong, united party that doesn’t merely aim to defeat the APC but rebuilds the political architecture of the country from the ground up.

“We don’t have somebody with the kind of intimidating profile like that of the late Buhari,” Lukman said. “That means all coalition leaders need to be humble and acknowledge they need one another.”

He emphasized team spirit, unity, and responsiveness to citizens as essential qualities the opposition must cultivate if they hope to earn trust and govern effectively. 

Drawing from personal political experience in the North, Lukman revealed how Buhari’s simple endorsement gesture, raising a candidate’s hand, was often enough to secure election wins. But he warned that this kind of “lazy politics” can no longer hold water.

“Now we don’t have any figure like that,” he said. “Politicians must be humble and engage citizens with listening ears and a serious commitment to fulfilling promises.”

For Lukman, the challenge now is not just about beating APC or Tinubu, but introducing a new political template, one rooted in credibility, service, and grassroots engagement.

“We must try to build a strong political party,” he said. “One that reflects the real expectations of Nigerians.”