Nigeria, April 5 -- On the surface, the decision by the senator representing Sokoto East Senatorial District, Ibrahim Lamido, to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be a protest against worsening insecurity in his constituency.

However, party insiders and political observers say the move is also shaped by an internal struggle within the party in Sokoto State.

While Mr Lamido has publicly cited the federal government's "inadequate response" to banditry in Sabon Birni, Isa and Rabah as his primary grievance, sources familiar with the state's political dynamics say the planned exit follows a prolonged rift with the state APC leadership.

Sokoto East has in recent months witnessed recurring attacks by armed groups, resultin...