In a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari have pledged their support to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, dealing a significant blow to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development followed a closed-door meeting in Abuja on Thursday, where state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC)—Buhari’s original political platform—met with Atiku at his residence to chart a new course.
Atiku, who is currently spearheading coalition-building efforts under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), welcomed the delegation, pledging to work with them in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
The CPC bloc, long regarded as Buhari’s most steadfast support base, accused the APC-led administration of straying from the ideals that brought the party to power in 2015.
One of the CPC leaders declared:
“We are the true followers of Buhari, and we are here today to affirm our loyalty. President Buhari left an unprecedented mark in this country’s history, and we will not allow it to fade. We are ready to merge into the new platform God has chosen, under your leadership in the ADC.”
The declaration is expected to heighten tensions within the APC, particularly in the North, where Buhari still commands strong grassroots influence.
Another CPC chieftain contrasted Buhari’s era with the present administration, arguing that those currently in power no longer reflect the movement’s founding principles.
“If you look at Malami, El-Rufai, and others who worked closely with Buhari, you see the CPC spirit. Compare that with the current faces in government—it is clear the ideals have shifted,” he said.
In his remarks, Atiku described the move as a significant step toward building a broad-based alliance capable of mounting a serious challenge to APC’s dominance in 2027.
“This meeting represents a continuation of your journey and struggles. With your support, we can translate this journey into success and form a government that reflects inclusivity, unity, and service to the people,” he told the delegation.
Atiku also urged them to mobilise their grassroots networks for the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing its importance in determining the outcome of the elections.
Political observers say the defection of Buhari’s loyalists could trigger one of Nigeria’s most consequential political shifts since the APC’s formation nearly a decade ago.