Key Points

• APC governors urged Buhari to convince his loyalists to stay in the party.

• Defections from key figures like Malami and Nwajiuba could weaken the APC.

• Buhari’s refusal to intervene in others’ party choices raises concerns about the party’s future.

In a recent meeting at former President Muhammadu Buhari’s Kaduna residence, governors from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) appealed to the former leader to convince his loyalists not to leave the party.

Led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, the governors discussed growing concerns over defections ahead of the 2027 general election.

Governors’ plea amidst defections

The governors were worried about speculations that some of Buhari’s closest allies might join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), which could potentially weaken the APC.

This plea came after several high-profile defections, including that of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who claimed to have Buhari’s blessing for his departure. Other former ministers were also reportedly planning to leave the APC for the SDP.

During the meeting, the governors specifically urged Buhari to speak with key figures like former Attorney General Abubakar Malami and former Minister of State for Education Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, asking them not to abandon the party.

They expressed fears that the departure of these prominent individuals could severely impact the APC, especially as the CPC bloc, the largest faction within the party, could be at risk of collapsing.

Buhari’s stance on defections

However, Buhari distanced himself from the issue, stating that individuals, such as Nwajiuba and Malami, should make their own political choices.

He made it clear that, throughout his political career, he had never interfered in others’ decisions about party affiliation. His comments have sparked speculation about future defections and the potential consequences for the APC.

The APC’s internal struggles

The meeting between Buhari and the governors comes at a critical time for the APC. The party is dealing with internal conflicts, particularly regarding the selection process for its presidential candidate.

In 2022, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC adopted indirect primaries, rejecting a consensus arrangement, which led to discontent within the CPC bloc.

If figures like Malami, Nwajiuba, and others decide to leave the APC, it could weaken the party’s position as it prepares for the 2027 elections.

The governors’ meeting with Buhari highlighted their concern over the party’s future stability, given these ongoing challenges.