In a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, key loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari have pledged their support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, signaling a widening rift within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development took shape during a private meeting in Abuja, where former state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Buhari’s original political base, met with Atiku at his residence.
Atiku, who is currently leading efforts to consolidate a new political force under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), welcomed the CPC bloc and assured them of a shared commitment to reshape Nigeria’s political future.
The CPC leaders, who once formed the backbone of the APC’s grassroots strength, accused the Tinubu-led administration of straying from the founding ideals of the coalition that brought the party to power in 2015.
“We are the true followers of Buhari, and we are here today, Sir,” one of the leaders said.
“When this coalition started, we identified early on with the party we wanted to align with. President Buhari has left an unprecedented mark in this country’s history, and we won’t allow that legacy to be erased.”
Declaring their intention to fully merge with the ADC, the CPC bloc hailed Atiku as the leader of a new political direction, one they say aligns more closely with Buhari’s original vision of inclusive and transparent governance.
“We are ready to merge into the new political platform that God has chosen for us—appointing you as the leader—being the ADC,” the spokesman declared.
Their open endorsement of Atiku is expected to intensify internal tensions within the APC, particularly in the North, where Buhari’s influence remains strong.
Another CPC figure, drawing comparisons between Buhari’s era and the current administration, criticized the government’s departure from the original ideals of the CPC-APC coalition.
“You don’t need to be told who the CPC people are, look at former Attorney-General Malami, former Governor El-Rufai, and others who stood by Buhari,” he said.
“Now compare them to the people holding power today.”
In his remarks, Atiku welcomed the CPC leaders and described the meeting as a strategic step toward forming a viable alternative to the APC.
“This meeting is a continuation of your political journey and your enduring struggle,” Atiku said.
“With your support, we can transform this movement into electoral success.”
He reiterated his commitment to building a people-oriented government rooted in inclusivity, peace, and national unity.
Atiku also urged them to take the ongoing voter registration exercise seriously.
“The coalition we are building under the ADC is people-driven. I encourage you to mobilize your supporters and ensure they participate actively in the voter registration process.”
