The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has reignited speculations about the political future of his loyalists, particularly those from the now-defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the party he founded in 2009. Since President Bola Tinubu’s emergence in 2023, the influence of CPC loyalists has waned, with some key figures, such as ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, openly opposing Tinubu’s potential second-term bid.
With Buhari’s passing, analysts believe the All Progressives Congress (APC) may face renewed challenges from the late leader’s formidable cult-like followership, long estimated at over 12 million. Tensions have begun to surface between the APC and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as both parties vie to attract Buhari’s political base. Former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, remarked that Buhari’s death could reshape Nigeria’s political dynamics, stating, “With the passing away of Buhari, politics in Nigeria will certainly change — I hope for the better.”
ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, claimed that several of Buhari’s close allies have already joined their coalition. “Most of the Buhari loyalists are already with us,” Abdullahi stated. He emphasized that the coalition includes significant figures from the CPC, underscoring their commitment to preserving Buhari’s legacy.
Abdullahi criticized the APC for alienating Buhari’s supporters during his lifetime, questioning their loyalty to a party that has seemingly demonized the late president’s legacy. He expressed confidence that the passing of Buhari would solidify support for the ADC, as many of his loyalists feel sidelined within the APC.
Former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West) Salihu Lukman noted that Buhari’s death marks the end of an era in which political endorsements from the late President practically guaranteed electoral success. He urged politicians to reconnect with citizens and demonstrate humility, as the political landscape shifts in the absence of a figure with Buhari’s stature.
In response to the growing speculation of defections, APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, insisted that Buhari’s loyalists remain ideologically aligned with the ruling party. While acknowledging that Buhari’s passing has created a vacuum, he believes it will serve as an opportunity for the party to reassess and reconcile.
However, the potential for defection remains a concern, as some APC members feel sidelined since Buhari’s exit from power. The political atmosphere is charged with uncertainty, with leaders divided on the implications of Buhari’s death for the party’s future.
Opinions among northern leaders reflect this division. Former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum Anthony Sani expressed confidence that Buhari’s supporters would remain loyal to the APC. In contrast, Yerima Shettima, President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, warned that Buhari’s death could create a power vacuum within the APC, making it crucial for the party to manage his legacy carefully.
This evolving political landscape indicates that as tensions mount, the future of Buhari’s loyalists within the APC remains uncertain. The situation calls for close attention as the 2027 elections approach, and the decisions of these key figures could significantly impact Nigeria’s political dynamics moving forward.
(Source: The Punch Newspaper)
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