Members of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change, CPC, have distanced themselves from any planned coalition against President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress in 2027.
Instead, the members on Wednesday pledged their loyalty and allegiance to the ruling party and the President in the 2027 general elections.
Led by a former Governor of Nasarawa State, Tanko Al-Makura, the members noted that there have been insinuations in some quarters recently that the bloc could team up with the former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, whose quest to lead a movement against President Tinubu in 2027 is an open secret.
After a meeting at the Abuja residence of Al-Makura, members of the defunct CPC reaffirmed their allegiance to the APC and Tinubu in the next general elections.
In the joint statement signed by Al-Makura, former Katsina State Governor, Bello Masari, and 21 others, the group explained that the undersigned leaders and dedicated members of the former Congress for Progressive Change, are instrumental to the historic merger that birthed the All Progressives Congress, reaffirming their unwavering loyalty to the party and express their strong solidarity with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The statement said, “Recent misleading narratives suggesting defection or discontent among CPC stakeholders are baseless, mischievous, and should be disregarded. We remain a vital part of the APC, fully committed to its leadership and vision.”
They categorically stated that they have neither left the APC nor do they intend to leave, stressing that the CPC bloc remains one of the APC’s foundational pillars, and are resolute in their commitment to the party and its progressive ideals.
They added that as a legacy party within the APC, they take pride in the sacrifices made to build a platform that fosters national unity, justice, and development, assuring that they will not allow individuals to dismantle the party they helped build through years of tireless dedication.
Attempts to sow disunity within the party and the country, they explained do not reflect the will or position of genuine CPC core members and are wholly unacceptable.
In a show of support to the current administration, they commended Tinubu, saying that they fully endorsed the economic and governance reforms led by President Bola Tinubu, pointing out that while these policies may present challenges, they are crucial steps toward rebuilding the economy and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians, and urged patience and collective support as their benefits unfold.
They, however, advocated due process to address the rift within the APC, while acknowledging that some members may feel sidelined as such concerns are not unique to any one bloc, while encouraging those affected to seek redress through established constitutional channels within the party, rather than resorting to negative public agitation or hasty exits.
They urged the APC leadership to increase engagement with members at all levels, saying that it will strengthen internal communication, foster inclusiveness, reduce tensions, and enhance support for the party’s programs.
