Strong political realignments are emerging in the North ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as support groups of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from 19 Northern states have officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, formally received the defectors yesterday in Abuja. The groups, previously mobilized under the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups, pledged to work for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at the A-Class Event Centre, Abuja, where the defection was announced, the Coordinator of the coalition, Hon. Abubakar Malami, explained their decision.
“Our groups consist of various segments of society—women, youths, students, traders, academics, and farmers—spanning diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds. In 2023, we worked tirelessly to mobilize support for Atiku Abubakar across the 19 Northern states and the FCT. However, after assessing the political landscape, we have decided to support President Tinubu’s administration for 2027,” Malami stated.
He credited Senator Barau Jibrin for encouraging their switch to APC, citing his efforts in addressing challenges affecting the North.
Reacting to the development, Senator Barau Jibrin described the defection as a “big catch” for the ruling party.
“It is good that you are teaming up with Mr. President so that he can succeed in transforming the country. This is a very good development, and we are happy you are joining the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu family,” Jibrin said.
Similarly, APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, commended the move and praised Senator Jibrin for facilitating the defection.
With this shift, political dynamics in the Northern region are expected to take a new shape as the race for 2027 intensifies.
