The political landscape of Nigeria is shifting dramatically as the 2027 general elections draw nearer. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a prominent figure in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has suffered a significant blow with the defection of a large segment of his northern support base to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This exodus, orchestrated under the banner of the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups, represents a considerable realignment of political forces in the northern region, a traditionally crucial voting bloc. The defectors, encompassing a diverse cross-section of society including women, youths, students, traders, academics, and farmers from various religious and ethnic backgrounds, were formally received by APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau at an event held in Abuja. This shift in allegiance underscores the evolving dynamics of Nigerian politics and potentially foreshadows a challenging campaign for Atiku should he choose to run again in 2027.
The Coalition of Atiku Support Groups, instrumental in mobilizing support for Atiku during the 2023 elections, played a pivotal role in securing votes for the former Vice President across the nineteen northern states and the Federal Capital Territory. Their defection signifies a substantial loss for the PDP and a significant gain for the APC. The group’s coordinator, Abubakar Malami, articulated their reasons for switching allegiances, citing the relative peace and improved security situation in the northern region under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He also highlighted the declining food prices, attributing them to the improved security situation, which has facilitated farming activities previously hampered by terrorism and banditry. This focus on tangible improvements in daily life suggests a pragmatic approach by the defecting group, prioritizing immediate concerns over long-standing party loyalties.
Malami further lauded President Tinubu’s establishment of the North West Development Commission, initiated through a bill sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau. This initiative, deemed a “game changer” by Malami, aims to address the developmental challenges in the region, further solidifying the defectors’ support for the Tinubu administration. The group’s explicit pledge to work towards Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 underscores their commitment to the current administration and their belief in its ability to deliver positive change. The defectors’ public acknowledgment of Barau’s role in addressing regional challenges, even referring to him as the “Sardauna Arewa of our time,” highlights the influence of local leadership in shaping political affiliations.
The APC leadership welcomed the defectors with open arms, recognizing the significance of their decision. Barau described the defection as a “big catch” for the party, emphasizing Tinubu’s efforts in repositioning Nigeria towards prosperity. He assured the newcomers of equal opportunities within the APC, reinforcing the party’s message of inclusivity and its eagerness to absorb new members. Barau’s praise of Tinubu’s leadership qualities, highlighting his generosity and hospitality, further underscores the party’s strategy of presenting Tinubu as a unifying figure capable of bridging regional and ethnic divides.
Ganduje echoed Barau’s sentiments, commending the defectors for their courage and welcoming them into the APC fold. He promised a grand reception for the new members, to be attended by President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, symbolizing the party’s embrace of the incoming wave of support. Ganduje’s bold declaration of the PDP’s impending demise, citing the party’s struggles in the Anambra governorship election as evidence of its decline, reflects the APC’s confidence in its growing strength and the perceived weakness of its main opposition.
The defection of Atiku’s northern support base to the APC represents a major political development in Nigeria. While the long-term implications remain to be seen, this shift in allegiance has undoubtedly altered the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. For Atiku, it poses a significant challenge, potentially weakening his stronghold in the north and requiring him to recalibrate his campaign strategy. For the APC, it signifies growing momentum and a potential consolidation of power. This event underscores the fluidity of political loyalties in Nigeria and the importance of addressing regional concerns and delivering tangible benefits to secure popular support. The unfolding political drama promises a compelling lead-up to the 2027 elections as parties vie for dominance and voters weigh their options in a rapidly changing political environment.
