In a surprising turn in the build-up to the 2027 general elections, a faction of loyalists to former President Muhammadu Buhari has publicly thrown its weight behind former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.The move, which signals a major realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape, comes as parties and power blocs intensify strategies ahead of the polls.
The Buhari loyalists, many of whom were instrumental to his rise to power in 2015, said their decision was driven by a desire to back a candidate they believe has the political experience and capacity to steer the country forward.Speaking during a closed-door meeting in Abuja, the group noted that Atiku’s long-standing commitment to economic reforms and his broad political network position him as a unifying figure capable of bridging Nigeria’s deep political and regional divides.
We respect President Buhari’s legacy, but the times call for a tested leader with a fresh approach. Atiku Abubakar has the vision and experience Nigeria needs at this critical juncture,” one of the conveners stated.The declaration of support is expected to stir debates within both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where Atiku remains a key figure. Analysts say this shift could reshape alliances and heighten the contest as the nation heads toward another decisive election.