2027: Buhari’s CPC loyalists may exit APC

The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari has sparked renewed speculation about the political direction of his loyalists, especially those from the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), a party he founded in 2009.

As reported by PUNCH, since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023, the influence of CPC loyalists within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has gradually diminished.

Prominent figures such as former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai and ex-SGF Babachir Lawal have publicly voiced their opposition to Tinubu’s expected re-election campaign.

Buhari’s death has intensified discussions about the fate of his devoted political base, estimated at over 12 million strong, with analysts suggesting the APC could face internal fractures as a result.

Emerging political tensions between the APC and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have been noted, with both parties reportedly seeking to win over Buhari’s supporters. Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar recently commented that Buhari’s death could shift the country’s political landscape.

“His passing will undoubtedly alter Nigeria’s political terrain — hopefully for the better,” Abdulsalami said.

Meanwhile, ADC’s interim spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, in an interview with The PUNCH, claimed that many of Buhari’s staunch allies had already joined the ADC coalition.

“A large portion of Buhari’s loyalists are already aligned with us,” he said. “The entire North is with our party, and the former President’s demise only solidifies his wish that his followers unite under this coalition.”

He listed key CPC-linked politicians now part of the coalition, including Babachir Lawal, Abubakar Malami, Isah Pantami, Emeka Nwajiuba, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, stating their involvement reflects Buhari’s intended direction.

Abdullahi also accused the APC of marginalising Buhari and undermining his legacy while he was alive. He criticized the Tinubu-led administration for blaming the former president for the nation’s economic woes, questioning why Buhari’s allies would remain in the party under such conditions.

Still, several CPC figures remain within the APC, including former Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura, Senator Ahmed Sani, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina, and NDLEA Chairman Buba Marwa. Other notable names are Aminu Masari, Abdullahi Sule, Adamu Adamu, Nasiru Argungu, and a host of others.

Despite their continued membership, insiders say not all are expected to remain. Some aggrieved loyalists who feel marginalized since Buhari left office may eventually switch parties ahead of 2027.

Salihu Lukman, former APC Vice Chairman (North-West) and now part of the ADC coalition, noted that Buhari’s death signified the end of an era when his endorsement was nearly a political guarantee.

Speaking on Arise TV, Lukman stressed that future success would rely on collaborative leadership and a new political vision, not merely defeating the ruling party.

“We no longer have someone of Buhari’s stature. It’s time for leaders to be more humble and responsive to citizens,” he said.

In contrast, APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed fears of mass defections, maintaining that Buhari’s allies still identify ideologically with the ruling party.

“They won’t join ADC. Their beliefs align with APC,” he insisted, acknowledging Buhari’s absence would challenge the party but describing it as an opportunity for self-evaluation and growth.

Former Communications Minister Adebayo Shittu, another CPC figure, also denied any plans to leave the APC, stating he intended to run for Oyo State governor in 2027 under the party’s platform.

“The party won’t splinter because of Buhari’s death. In fact, more people are joining the APC,” Shittu said.

Meanwhile, reactions from northern leaders have been mixed.

Anthony Sani, former ACF Secretary General, downplayed concerns, saying Buhari’s supporters are unlikely to abandon his political legacy.

“His supporters won’t turn against him, even posthumously,” Sani said, casting doubt on the viability of the ADC coalition due to what he called a lack of ideological clarity.

However, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum President, Yerima Shettima, warned that Buhari’s exit could leave a power vacuum within the APC.

“Buhari’s leadership combined loyalty and division. His absence could destabilize the APC. How the party handles his legacy will be crucial to its future,” Shettima stated.