Members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) have distanced themselves from any planned coalition against President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. Instead, they reaffirmed their loyalty to the ruling party and expressed strong support for President Tinubu’s administration.
The announcement came after a meeting on Wednesday at the Abuja residence of Tanko Al-Makura, the former Governor of Nasarawa State and a leading figure in the CPC. The bloc’s decision to pledge allegiance to the APC follows recent rumors suggesting they might align with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who is reportedly positioning himself to lead an opposition movement against President Tinubu in 2027.
In a joint statement, co-signed by Al-Makura, former Katsina State Governor Bello Masari, and 21 other key members, the group emphasized their unwavering commitment to the APC and its leadership. The statement addressed circulating rumors about a potential defection, calling the narratives “baseless” and “mischievous.”
“We, the undersigned leaders and dedicated members of the former Congress for Progressive Change, instrumental in the historic merger that birthed the All Progressives Congress, issue this statement to reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to our great party and express our strong solidarity with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read.
The CPC bloc reaffirmed that it remains a foundational pillar of the APC, adding that any attempts to sow disunity within the party and the country were “wholly unacceptable.” They reiterated their pride in the legacy of the CPC, which was instrumental in building the APC into the influential political force it is today.
While offering their full endorsement of President Tinubu’s economic and governance reforms, the group acknowledged the challenges posed by the policies but urged patience and support as the country works toward recovery. They also called for more internal engagement within the APC, emphasizing the importance of strengthening communication to maintain party unity.
“We fully endorse the economic and governance reforms led by President Bola Tinubu,” they stated. “While these policies may present challenges, they are crucial steps toward rebuilding our economy and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians.”
The statement concluded with a firm declaration of loyalty to both the APC and President Tinubu, with the CPC bloc asserting their continued role in the party’s growth and in the progress of Nigeria.
Notable members who endorsed the statement include former Education Minister Malam Adamu Adamu, Okoi Okono-Obla, Senator Mustapha Salihu, Waziri Bulama, and Jerry Johnson, among others.
