Hundreds of Northern Groups Pledge Allegiance to President Tinubu Ahead of 2027 Elections
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has received a significant political boost as hundreds of former support groups of Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), formally defected to the ruling party.
The defection, involving groups from the 19 Northern states, took place at the A-Class Event Centre in Abuja, where leaders of the coalition pledged their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Senator Barau I. Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate, described the mass defection as a “big catch” for the APC. He emphasized that the ruling party welcomes all members equally and rewards hard work, signaling a commitment to inclusivity and meritocracy.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, also hailed the defection, calling it a major setback for the PDP. Ganduje expressed confidence that the APC’s progressive ideology, internal democracy, and commitment to good governance would continue to attract more members from opposition parties.
“This is a clear indication that Nigerians recognize the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in delivering good governance and driving national development,” Ganduje stated. “The APC remains the party of choice for all Nigerians who desire progress and unity.”
The defection is seen as a strategic move ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the APC consolidating its support base in the Northern region, a key political stronghold. The leaders of the defecting groups cited the APC’s performance and President Tinubu’s leadership as reasons for their decision to switch allegiance.
The PDP, however, has yet to issue an official response to the defection. Political analysts suggest that the move could further weaken the opposition party’s influence in the North, while strengthening the APC’s position as the dominant political force in the country.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the APC’s ability to attract defectors from rival parties underscores its growing influence and sets the stage for a highly competitive political landscape.