The Kano State Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, Usaini Isa Meriga, has resigned from his position and withdrawn from active politics, citing internal crises allegedly fueled by the opposition parties.
In a statement on Tuesday, Meriga said his decision followed what he described as a deep-rooted crisis that has crippled the party both in Kano and at the national level.
He told Arewa PUNCH in an exclusive interview on Wednesday that he could no longer continue to be part of a political system that, in his words, “has lost the essence of democracy.”
Meriga added, “This is not an easy decision for me. I have been a loyal member of the Social Democratic Party since 1992.
“But it is unfortunate that the party I once believed in no longer upholds the principles of democracy. In fact, no political party in the country today can confidently say it truly practices democracy.”
He alleged that the SDP crisis was worsened by interference from rival parties seeking to destabilise it.
“From the day some top political actors from other parties agreed to join the SDP to tackle the APC, the crisis erupted. Since then, the party has lost focus and direction,” the SDP ex-secretary stressed.
Meriga further disclosed that the party has been battling leadership tussle at the national level, with two individuals — Shehu Gabon and Sadiq Gombe — both claiming to be the national chairmen.
“At the national level, there is confusion. We have Shehu Gabon and Sadiq Gombe both parading themselves as national chairmen of the party. How can we talk about progress when the foundation is already divided?” he lamented.
The former SDP secretary pointed out that his resignation marks his temporary exit from politics, noting that he may only return if he finds a trustworthy and credible leader to support.
“For now, I’m not joining any political party. But if in the future I see a person I can trust, I will support him and encourage others to vote for him,” Meriga said.
He thanked his supporters and political associates for their prayers and encouragement over the years, saying he would now focus on community development and personal growth.
“I sincerely thank all those who stood by me and prayed for me throughout my political journey. I wish the SDP and all my colleagues well,” he concluded.
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