Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a faction of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s loyalists has shifted their support to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, highlighting internal fractures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The decision was formalised on Thursday, September 18, during a private meeting in Abuja where state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Buhari’s original political party, met at Atiku’s residence to outline a new political direction.
Atiku, who is spearheading coalition-building under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), welcomed the delegation and pledged to work with them to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
Addressing the group, a CPC leader said, “Bring it out, make it visible. Politics does not operate in the corner; bring your politics out. That is essentially what we are here to emphasise.
“We are the true followers of Buhari, and we are here today, Sir. When this coalition started, we identified early on with the party we wanted to align with.
“My leader, I want to assure and reassure you of our commitment. The CPC bloc is intact. President Buhari has left an unprecedented mark in the history of this country, and we will not allow it to be lost.
“We are now ready to merge into the new political platform that God has chosen for us, appointing you as the leader, that platform now being the ADC.”
The shift of allegiance to Atiku adds tension within APC and could influence political dynamics in northern Nigeria, where Buhari still holds considerable grassroots support.
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Another CPC official highlighted a contrast between Buhari’s era and the current administration, stating, “You see me, I don’t need to tell you I’m CPC. If you see former Attorney-General Malami, former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai, and others who worked closely with President Buhari, you don’t need to be told they are CPC.
“Then, you can compare this with the faces you see now in positions of power.”
Atiku welcomed the defection, describing it as a crucial step in building a broad alliance capable of challenging APC’s dominance.
“I am particularly delighted to receive you today. This meeting represents a continuation of your journey and your struggles. I believe that with your support, we will be able to translate this journey into success.
“We will also work to form a government that reflects the vision of inclusivity and service to the people, a government responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens and committed to peace and unity across Nigeria,” he said.
He also urged the CPC supporters to mobilise for the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing its significance in determining the outcome of the 2027 elections.
“I explained how the coalition efforts began and assured them that the ADC is a truly people-driven platform. I encouraged them to mobilise their supporters for the ongoing voter registration exercise,” Atiku added.
The meeting marks a significant early move in what could become one of the most consequential political realignments in Nigeria since the APC was formed over a decade ago.