By John Umeh
In a move that has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s political landscape, a powerful bloc of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s men has openly pledged allegiance to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, abandoning President Bola Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
The dramatic shift was sealed at a high-level meeting in Abuja, where state chairmen and influential leaders of the now-defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) — Buhari’s original political party before the APC merger — gathered at Atiku’s residence to formalize their defection.
For many political watchers, this is more than just a symbolic gesture; it represents the unraveling of the once-solid foundation upon which the APC was built. The CPC bloc had always been regarded as Buhari’s most loyal political base, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where the former president still commands massive grassroots support.
Why Buhari’s Men Are Moving Away from Tinubu
The defectors minced no words in explaining their disillusionment with the Tinubu administration. They accused the APC leadership of abandoning the ideals of integrity, discipline, and people-centered governance that brought the party to power in 2015 under Buhari’s leadership.
One CPC leader, speaking passionately, declared:
“We are the true followers of Buhari. When this coalition started, we knew the values we stood for. Unfortunately, what we see today is not the APC that Buhari built. We refuse to allow his legacy to be erased. That is why we are aligning with Atiku under the ADC.”
Another leader pointedly criticized the “faces in power today,” arguing that they do not embody the original CPC spirit. “If you see Buhari’s real allies — like Malami, El-Rufai, and others who served with him — you know what CPC stood for. Compare that with what we see today, and you will understand our frustration,” he said.
Their declaration of loyalty to Atiku marks a significant realignment that could reshape the political terrain before 2027, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where Buhari’s influence remains a critical factor.
Atiku Welcomes the Defectors
Atiku Abubakar, who has been working to build a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warmly welcomed the CPC bloc, describing their move as a historic step toward rescuing Nigeria from what he called “a government that has lost its way.”
“I am particularly delighted to receive you today,” Atiku said in his remarks. “This meeting is a continuation of your struggle. With your support, we can translate this struggle into victory. Together, we will form a government that prioritizes inclusivity, peace, and service to the people.”
He urged the new supporters to mobilize their networks for the ongoing voter registration drive, calling it a decisive step toward ensuring electoral victory in 2027. “The ADC is a people-driven platform,” he added. “We must give Nigerians an alternative that speaks to their needs and aspirations.”
The Bigger Picture: Cracks Within APC
The defection of Buhari’s men is not just a blow to the ruling APC; it also exposes the deepening cracks within Tinubu’s camp. Since assuming power in 2023, Tinubu’s reform agenda — aimed at economic recovery and structural changes — has faced resistance, with critics accusing his government of neglecting grassroots supporters and failing to carry key power blocs along.
Political analysts say the CPC bloc’s exit could weaken APC’s dominance in the North, a region that has historically delivered the numbers in presidential contests. Without Buhari’s men firmly behind him, Tinubu risks losing a significant portion of his northern base, leaving the APC vulnerable.
Moreover, this realignment could be the beginning of a larger coalition against the ruling party, reminiscent of how disparate groups merged to form the APC in 2013 — a union that eventually toppled the then-dominant PDP.
What This Means for 2027
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the loyalty of Buhari’s grassroots supporters could prove decisive. Their decision to side with Atiku under the ADC platform gives the former vice president a stronger foothold in regions where he has traditionally struggled.
The development also signals the start of what may be one of Nigeria’s most consequential political realignments in recent history. If more disgruntled APC members join the defection train, the ruling party may face its toughest electoral challenge since 2015.
For now, Atiku appears to have gained a critical boost, while Tinubu’s APC must grapple with growing internal divisions and the daunting task of holding together a coalition that once seemed unbreakable.
