The member representing Edu State Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Saba Yisa Gideon, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress over concerns about internal democracy, fairness and inclusiveness within the party.
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Gideon announced the decision in a letter dated August 19, 2026, addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Tsaragi Ward 3 in Edu Local Government Area. He confirmed the resignation to The PUNCH by telephone in Ilorin on Thursday, August 27.
“I hereby formally resign my membership of the All Progressives Congress, effective immediately,” Gideon stated.
The lawmaker, who chairs the House Committee on Livestock, said the decision followed consultations with his constituents and other stakeholders.
Gideon said recent developments within the APC had prompted careful reflection about his continued membership of the party.
“This decision follows careful reflection and consultations with my constituents and key stakeholders,” he said, citing concerns over “internal democracy, fairness and inclusiveness”.
Despite leaving the APC, Gideon said his political responsibilities to the people of Edu State Constituency remained unchanged.
“I remain committed to serving the people of Edu State Constituency, Kwara State, and Nigeria with integrity, dedication, and accountability,” he said.
The lawmaker did not disclose whether he plans to join another political party.
His departure comes months after a major dispute between Gideon and the leadership of the Kwara State House of Assembly.
On December 18, 2025, the Assembly suspended Gideon for three months over allegations that he secretly recorded a closed-door meeting and shared the recording with an unauthorised person.
The House described the action as contempt and a breach of legislative privilege. Speaker Yakubu Danladi-Salihu said the conduct had the potential to damage the reputation of the legislature.
Gideon challenged the suspension in court, and the Kwara State High Court subsequently nullified the disciplinary action in February 2026.
The court ruled that the suspension was unconstitutional and unlawful, finding that the procedure adopted by the Assembly was not supported by the relevant law and House rules.
The court victory represented a significant moment in Gideon’s dispute with the Assembly leadership.
His decision to leave the APC now adds a fresh political dimension to his recent history with the Kwara legislature and the ruling party.
For the APC, Gideon’s resignation comes as Nigerian political parties begin positioning themselves more aggressively ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Also read: Adelabu Steps Back From Oyo APC Primary Dispute
The lawmaker, however, framed his departure primarily around the principles of fairness and internal party democracy, while expressing appreciation for the opportunity and support he received during his time in the APC.
