2027: Tinubu moves to Stop APC Crisis as Buhari’s loyalists, CPC threaten defection to SDP

With the 2027 presidential election drawing closer, President Bola Tinubu’s camp is reportedly scrambling to prevent a major political crisis as influential members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly those from the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc, consider defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Tinubu Turns to Al-Makura to Pacify Buhari’s Allies

A leaked internal memo reveals that President Tinubu is banking on former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, to persuade the CPC bloc—loyalists of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari—to remain in the APC. Sources say Al-Makura is being offered the APC national chairmanship in exchange for his role in convincing Buhari to intervene and stop his supporters from leaving.

Al-Makura is expected to hold a press conference on Monday, where he may announce Buhari’s alleged endorsement of Tinubu’s efforts to keep the party united.

Growing Discontent Within APC

The ruling party is facing increasing internal strife, with several high-profile figures openly expressing dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s leadership. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, and ex-Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa are reportedly exploring alternative political platforms ahead of 2027.

El-Rufai has already claimed that Buhari gave him his “blessing” to leave the APC. Meanwhile, some former ministers from Buhari’s administration are said to be finalizing plans to join the SDP in large numbers. In Katsina, Buhari’s home state, several APC members have already defected.

APC Leadership in Panic Mode

The Progressive Governors’ Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, recently visited Buhari in Kaduna, pleading with him to help stop the looming exodus.

APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) also met with the former president last Friday—just hours after opposition leaders, including Atiku, El-Rufai, Tambuwal, and former Communications Minister Isa Pantami, held talks with him.

With tensions rising, fears of a potential mass defection have intensified. Political observers warn that the departure of this influential faction could deal a significant blow to the ruling party’s prospects in the 2027 elections.