Ambassador Mohammed Bomoi, a prominent figure within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has formally announced his resignation from the party, citing profound dissatisfaction with its national leadership and alleging significant marginalisation of the North-East region. His departure, detailed in a recent statement, marks a notable shift in the country’s political landscape, particularly for the governing party. Bomoi also declared his withdrawal from the Tinubu/Shettima political movement, effectively severing his ties with the APC at the national level.
Bomoi’s resignation carries considerable weight given his past contributions and influence within the party structure. He previously served as the Secretary of the APC Special Purpose Committee for the North-East Zone, a critical role that involved strategic planning and mobilisation in a politically significant area. Furthermore, he was an active and vocal member of the Tinubu Support Group, playing a crucial part in garnering grassroots support for the current administration during its formative stages.
The former party stalwart attributed his decision to what he described as a consistent failure by the APC to adequately recognise and include him, alongside other loyal members who dedicated substantial efforts to mobilise support. These mobilisation activities spanned across key North-Eastern states, including Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Adamawa, Taraba, and Yobe. He argued that their tireless work, which contributed significantly to the party’s electoral successes, has since been overlooked.
A central plank of Bomoi’s grievances is the perceived “aloof and laissez-faire attitude” he alleges the party’s national leadership exhibits towards the North-East region. This alleged indifference, according to Bomoi, extends beyond mere oversight, creating a deep sense of neglect among party faithful and the general populace in the area. Such an attitude, he contends, undermines the foundational principles of inclusive governance and party loyalty.
Bomoi articulated that this perceived lack of inclusion and recognition has profoundly diminished his confidence, not only in the APC as a political entity but also in the very political leaders he had actively worked to support and elevate. His statement underscored a growing disillusionment with the party’s internal dynamics and its commitment to equitable representation across Nigeria’s diverse regions. The sentiment suggests a betrayal of trust from within.
Furthermore, Bomoi escalated his critique by alleging that specific actions undertaken by the current administration indicate that the North is being treated as a “caste.” He contended that the crucial social contract, implicitly understood between the Northern region and the federal centre, has been deliberately and systematically undermined. This grave accusation points to a fundamental breakdown in trust and equitable power-sharing.
In a resolute tone, Bomoi affirmed that he held no regrets regarding his decision to vacate his position as Secretary of the APC Special Purpose Committee, North-East Zone. His unequivocal stance signals a definitive break, suggesting that attempts at reconciliation or reconsideration are unlikely. This firm declaration highlights the depth of his conviction regarding the issues he has raised.
Bomoi’s high-profile departure could potentially trigger broader repercussions for the APC, particularly in the North-East, a region vital for the party’s national electoral strategy. Such resignations from influential figures often signal deeper fissures within a political organisation, potentially encouraging other disaffected members to reconsider their allegiances or voice their own grievances publicly. The party leadership faces the challenge of managing this fallout.
The timing of this resignation is also significant, occurring at a juncture where the APC-led federal government is striving to consolidate its mandate and address various national challenges. Internal dissent, especially from a region that historically contributes substantial electoral support, could complicate efforts to present a united front and deliver on key policy objectives. Maintaining party cohesion is paramount for stability.
Political analysts suggest that Bomoi’s allegations of marginalisation echo sentiments expressed by some other regional stakeholders who feel overlooked despite their contributions to the party’s success. The APC, as a national party, relies heavily on balancing diverse regional interests and ensuring equitable representation to maintain its broad appeal and political dominance across Nigeria’s complex geopolitical landscape.
This development places renewed scrutiny on the APC’s internal conflict resolution mechanisms and its capacity to address grievances from within its ranks. The party’s response, or lack thereof, to Bomoi’s accusations will likely be closely watched by political observers and could influence perceptions of its leadership’s responsiveness and commitment to inclusive governance. Effective damage control will be crucial.
Ultimately, Ambassador Mohammed Bomoi’s exit from the APC underscores the ongoing complexities of party politics in Nigeria, where regional balancing, power-sharing, and recognition of contributions remain critical factors. His departure serves as a potent reminder that even victorious parties must continuously work to foster unity and address the concerns of all their stakeholders to prevent internal fragmentation.
