ABUJA – With the 2027 general elections already casting shadows, a major political shake-up has hit the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari have openly declared support for ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in a move that signals cracks within the ruling party and a possible realignment of forces ahead of the polls.
The dramatic switch was sealed at a private meeting in Abuja, where state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) – Buhari’s original political base – gathered at Atiku’s residence. Atiku, now leading coalition-building efforts under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), assured the group of his readiness to work with them in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
Speaking at the meeting, CPC leaders accused the current APC-led administration of betraying the ideals that brought Buhari to power in 2015. One of them declared: “We are the true followers of Buhari, and we are here today, Sir. The CPC bloc is intact. We will not allow Buhari’s legacy to be lost. The ADC is now our new home under your leadership.”
Their endorsement is expected to shift political dynamics, especially in Northern Nigeria, where Buhari’s grassroots influence remains strong. Another CPC stalwart argued that those currently occupying power do not represent the original CPC values, contrasting them with figures like El-Rufai and Malami who were core to Buhari’s movement.
In his response, Atiku welcomed the defection, calling it a major step in building a formidable alliance to challenge APC’s dominance in 2027. He urged the bloc to mobilise supporters for the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing the need for a government rooted in inclusivity, unity, and service to ordinary Nigerians.
This development marks what could become one of Nigeria’s most consequential political realignments since the APC’s formation a decade ago.
