Buhari Loyalists Back Atiku Ahead of 2027: A Political Realignment Shakes APC

In a dramatic twist that could reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections, loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari have thrown their weight behind former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The development, which emerged after a private meeting in Abuja, underscores widening cracks within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and signals a potential shift in Northern political allegiances.

The meeting, held at Atiku’s residence, brought together state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC)—Buhari’s original political platform before the merger that birthed APC in 2013. These party stalwarts pledged allegiance to Atiku, who is currently leading coalition efforts under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Their endorsement raises fresh questions about the unity of APC and its ability to retain power in 2027.

According to reports, the CPC bloc, widely recognized as Buhari’s most loyal base, accused the present administration of straying from the ideals that once defined the coalition. One leader present at the meeting reportedly told Atiku:

“Bring it out, make it visible. Politics does not operate in the corner; bring your politics out. That is essentially what we are here to emphasise. We are the true followers of Buhari, and we are here today, Sir. The CPC bloc is intact. President Buhari has left an unprecedented mark in the history of this country, and we will not allow it to be lost. We are now ready to merge into the new political platform that God has chosen for us, appointing you as the leader, that platform now being the ADC.”

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Atiku Gains Strength with CPC Bloc Support

The declaration of support is being viewed as a significant political coup for Atiku, who has unsuccessfully contested for the presidency multiple times. With Buhari’s grassroots loyalists—particularly influential in Northern Nigeria—now aligning with him, analysts suggest the APC’s dominance may face a serious challenge in 2027.

During the Abuja meeting, another CPC leader drew a sharp contrast between the Buhari administration and the current government, arguing that today’s leadership has veered off the foundational values of the coalition that propelled APC to victory in 2015.

“You see me, I don’t need to tell you I’m CPC. If you see former Attorney-General Malami, former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai, and others who worked closely with President Buhari, you don’t need to be told they are CPC. Then, you can compare this with the faces you see now in positions of power,” the leader remarked, hinting at dissatisfaction with the APC’s current power structure.

This discontent has created an opening for Atiku, who is keen to galvanize disenchanted political blocs into a broad coalition. His willingness to engage Buhari’s loyalists highlights a strategy centered on inclusivity and realignment.

Atiku Welcomes Realignment and Calls for Mobilisation

In his remarks, Atiku warmly welcomed the delegation, describing their decision as a continuation of their political journey. He praised their loyalty to Buhari’s ideals and promised that their collaboration would yield a government that reflects inclusivity, service, and national unity.

“I am particularly delighted to receive you today. This meeting represents a continuation of your journey and your struggles. I believe that with your support, we will be able to translate this journey into success. We will also work to form a government that reflects the vision of inclusivity and service to the people, a government responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens and committed to peace and unity across Nigeria,” Atiku said.

Beyond lofty promises, Atiku emphasized practical political steps, urging the CPC bloc to mobilize their supporters for the ongoing voter registration exercise. According to him, voter participation will play a decisive role in shaping the 2027 outcome.

“I took time to explain how the current coalition efforts began and pledged to them that the ADC is a truly people-driven political platform. I also encouraged them to mobilise their supporters for the ongoing voter registration exercise,” Atiku noted.

Implications for APC and 2027 Political Calculations

The loyalty shift of Buhari’s former allies to Atiku could pose a serious threat to APC’s electoral strategy. Buhari remains a towering figure in Northern Nigeria, where his grassroots popularity contributed immensely to APC’s past victories. With his loyalists now defecting, the ruling party faces a potential erosion of support in its traditional strongholds.

Political observers argue that the move exposes deepening divisions within APC. Since assuming power, the current administration has faced criticisms from both opposition and internal party members, who believe the government has failed to uphold the coalition’s original principles. The CPC bloc’s defection may embolden other dissatisfied groups to realign with Atiku or other emerging opposition platforms.

For Atiku, the development marks a strategic breakthrough in his long-running presidential ambition. His coalition under the ADC appears to be gaining momentum, positioning him as a serious contender against APC in 2027. By absorbing Buhari’s loyalists, Atiku not only strengthens his northern base but also sends a strong message of inclusivity to other regions.

Yet, uncertainties remain. While the CPC bloc has declared support, Buhari himself has not publicly endorsed Atiku or the ADC. Whether the former president will actively support this realignment or remain neutral could significantly influence its eventual impact.

The defection of Buhari loyalists to Atiku Abubakar’s camp represents one of the most significant political realignments since APC’s rise to power in 2015. As the CPC bloc merges into Atiku’s coalition, the ruling party faces the daunting challenge of reconciling internal divisions while preparing for the 2027 elections.

Atiku, on the other hand, gains not only political capital but also a reinvigorated grassroots presence in the North, which could tip the scales in a tightly contested race. With voter registration underway and coalition-building efforts intensifying, Nigeria’s political landscape is set for an intriguing transformation in the years ahead.

One thing is clear: the road to 2027 will be defined by shifting alliances, and the endorsement of Atiku by Buhari’s most loyal followers is only the beginning of what promises to be a fiercely competitive political journey.