APC Sokoto Celebrates Departure of "Benchwarmer" Senator Ibrahim Lamido Following Indefinite Resignation

Senator Ibrahim Lamido exits the APC citing insecurity, but Sokoto party leaders celebrate the move. Read about his legislative record and the reaction in 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 3:48 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Guardian Nigeria.

The Departure of a Sitting Senator Met with Celebration

In a rare departure from conventional political trends, the resignation of Senator Ibrahim Lamido from the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been greeted with relief rather than regret by the party’s Sokoto State chapter. Lamido, who represents the Sokoto East Senatorial District, announced his exit on Saturday morning, claiming that the party’s failure to address insecurity and the welfare of his constituents necessitated his departure. Contrarily, local party members have described his exit as "good riddance to bad rubbish," suggesting that the senator had long become a liability to the party structure.

A Record of Legislative Impotence and Silence

Critics of the "distinguished" senator have been quick to highlight his lackluster performance in the Red Chamber. Since assuming office in 2023, Lamido has reportedly failed to sponsor a single bill or move a substantial motion, leading many to label him a "benchwarmer." Despite his current claims of being pained by the insecurity in Sokoto East, political observers point out that he has never used his legislative platform to advocate for primary healthcare reforms or state police architecture—areas directly within his committee’s oversight. His sudden concern for his constituents is being characterized by the APC as a "confession of legislative impotence."

The Paradox of Electoral Success

The narrative surrounding Lamido’s political career is one of high-level patronage rather than grassroots popularity. Reports indicate that during the 2023 elections, Lamido struggled to secure a majority even in his own polling unit and ward. His victory is widely attributed to the formidable APC machinery led by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and the strategic support of Governor Ahmed Aliyu. By resigning now, the senator is accused of kicking away the very ladder that allowed his political ascent, leading party loyalists to view his move as an act of political ingratitude.