The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has reignited speculation over the political future of his loyalists, especially those from the now-defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), the party he founded in 2009.
Since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023, the influence of CPC figures has declined, with several prominent allies—such as former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal—publicly distancing themselves from Tinubu and opposing a potential second-term bid.
With Buhari’s passing, analysts believe the All Progressives Congress (APC) may face fresh challenges from his fiercely loyal political base, estimated at over 12 million supporters. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has begun positioning itself as the new home for Buhari’s ideological followers.
Former military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, reflected on Buhari’s death, saying:
“With the passing away of Buhari, politics in Nigeria will certainly change — I hope for the better.”
ADC Eyes CPC Bloc
ADC interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, told The PUNCH that many CPC stalwarts had already joined their coalition.
Most of the Buhari loyalists are already with us. The majority of the North is with our party. That was Buhari’s wish—to see his members in the coalition, Abdullahi said.
He pointed to high-profile members like Babachir Lawal, Abubakar Malami, Isa Pantami, Emeka Nwajuba, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola as examples of Buhari-aligned figures within the ADC leadership.
Abdullahi accused the Tinubu-led APC of marginalizing Buhari and his legacy.
Why would they remain in APC? The Tinubu government blamed Buhari for nearly every economic problem,” he argued.
APC Faces Defection Risks
Although many former CPC members remain in the APC—including Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina, ex-Governor Aminu Masari, NDLEA Chairman Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), and several lawmakers—party insiders say not all are likely to stay.
Sources within the APC revealed that growing frustration, exclusion, and internal power shifts may push more loyalists toward defection ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Salihu Lukman, former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West) and now with the ADC coalition, said on Arise TV:
Buhari’s political endorsement was once a guarantee of victory. That era is over. Now, politicians must connect with citizens directly.
He emphasized the need for a new political culture based on humility, accountability, and unity.
APC: Buhari Loyalists Still With Us
In response, APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed claims of mass defections, saying Buhari’s followers remain ideologically aligned with the ruling party.
They will not support the ADC. They’re more comfortable in the APC, he said.
Yes, Buhari’s passing creates a vacuum, but it’s one that will prompt reflection, not collapse.
Former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, also denied rumors of defection:
No way. I’m staying in the APC and planning to run for Oyo governorship in 2027, he said.
Northern Leaders Split
Opinions among northern elites are mixed. Former Arewa Consultative Forum Secretary General Anthony Sani dismissed fears of fragmentation:
I don’t see Buhari supporters betraying him—even in his grave.
He also cast doubt on the ADC coalition’s prospects, citing zoning challenges and lack of clear policy alternatives.
Conversely, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum President, Yerima Shettima, warned that Buhari’s death could leave a leadership vacuum within the APC.
Buhari’s legacy was a blend of loyalty and division. How the party manages that legacy will define its future, he said.
He suggested that the CPC bloc could either serve as the guardian of Buhari’s ideals within the APC or evolve into a distinct political force.
