In a major political twist ahead of the 2027 general elections, loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari have thrown their weight behind ex–Vice President Atiku Abubakar, exposing widening cracks within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The decision was sealed on Thursday at a closed-door meeting in Abuja, where state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Buhari’s original political base met Atiku at his residence to chart a fresh political direction.
Atiku, who is currently leading efforts to build a broad coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pledged to work with the CPC bloc to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
The Buhari loyalists accused the APC of abandoning the principles that united the coalition which propelled the party to victory in 2015.
One of the CPC leaders declared, “Politics does not thrive in the shadows; it must be visible. We are the true followers of President Buhari and remain united. Buhari left an indelible mark in Nigeria’s history, and we will not allow it to be erased. We are ready to merge fully into the new political platform that God has chosen, with you as our leader – the ADC.”
They warned that the present APC leadership does not embody the values of the original Buhari movement. Another member remarked, “When you see the likes of former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami and ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, you immediately recognize the CPC spirit. Compare that to the current faces in power, there’s a clear difference.”
Atiku, welcoming the delegation, hailed their move as a critical step toward forming a formidable alliance capable of challenging APC’s grip on power.
“I am delighted to receive you today. This meeting continues the journey you began years ago. With your support, we can translate that struggle into victory,” he said. “Together, we will build a government that embodies inclusivity, serves ordinary Nigerians, and promotes peace and unity.”
He further urged them to mobilise their supporters for the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing its importance in determining the 2027 election outcome.
Thursday’s meeting marks an early but significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, setting the stage for what could be the country’s most consequential political realignment since the APC’s formation a decade ago.
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