Ahead of the 2027 presidential election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has received a significant boost with the defection of support groups from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). These groups, formerly aligned with PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 election, have pledged their allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, signaling a major political realignment in the North.

The formal reception of the defectors was conducted by key APC figures, including the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin. The event, held in Abuja, marked the culmination of efforts to consolidate support for President Tinubu's administration and strengthen the APC's position in the region.

Speaking on behalf of the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups, Hon. Abubakar Malami highlighted the reasons behind their decision to switch allegiance. He cited significant improvements in security and economic policies under President Tinubu's leadership as key factors, particularly the positive impact on reducing food prices and restoring hope in the region. Malami also lauded the establishment of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) and the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), initiatives championed by Senator Barau to spur economic growth.

"Our groups comprise various strata of society—women, youths, students, traders, academics, and farmers— representing diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds," Malami stated. He emphasized the coalition's commitment to ensuring President Tinubu's success in the 2027 election, promising to mobilize support across the Northern states.

Senator Barau Jibrin, in his address, hailed the defection as a "big catch" for the APC, underscoring the significance of uniting efforts to support President Tinubu's vision for national development. He assured the new members of equal opportunities within the party, emphasizing that hard work and contributions would be valued above all else.

"Mr. President is working tirelessly to transform Nigeria into a land of prosperity, and it is great that you recognize and support his efforts," Senator Barau affirmed, welcoming the defectors into the APC fold.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje seized the opportunity to comment on the PDP's declining influence. He attributed the defections to the PDP's internal struggles and emphasized the APC's commitment to progress, rule of law, and internal democracy.

"PDP is crumbling, and APC is the greatest beneficiary," Ganduje declared, promising a grand event after Ramadan to celebrate the "final collapse of PDP in Nigeria." He also commended Senator Barau for his instrumental role in attracting defectors from across the country.

The defection of these support groups represents a notable shift in the political landscape of the North, bolstering the APC's strength and setting the stage for the upcoming 2027 elections. With key figures like Senator Barau Jibrin leading the charge, the APC aims to consolidate its gains and solidify its position as the dominant political force in the region.