Members of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change on Wednesday, distanced themselves from any planned coalition against President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress in 2027. Punch reports.
Instead, they pledged their loyalty and allegiance to the ruling party and the President.
Led by a former Governor of Nasarawa State, Tanko Al-Makura, there have been insinuations in some quarters recently that the bloc could team up with 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 on Wednesday, members of the defunct CPC reaffirmed their allegiance to the APC and Tinubu.
In a statement co-signed by Al-Makura, former Katsina State Governor, Bello Masari, and 21 others, the group said, “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, GCFR.
“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.
“We categorically state that we have neither left the APC nor do we intend to leave. The CPC bloc remains one of the APC’s foundational pillars, and we are resolute in our commitment to the party and its progressive ideals.”
They added, “As a legacy party within the APC, we take pride in the sacrifices made to build a platform that fosters national unity, justice, and development. We will not allow individuals to dismantle the party we helped build through years of tireless dedication.
“Attempts to sow disunity within the party and the country 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 “We fully endorse the economic and governance reforms led by President Bola Tinubu. While these policies may present challenges, they are crucial steps toward rebuilding our economy and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians. We urge patience and collective support as their benefits unfold.”
They, however, advocated due process to address the rift within the APC.
“We acknowledge that some members may feel sidelined, but such concerns are not unique to any one bloc. We encourage those affected to seek redress through established constitutional channels within the party, rather than resorting to negative public agitation or hasty exits.
“We urge the APC leadership to increase engagement with members at all levels. Strengthening internal communication will foster inclusiveness, reduce tensions, and enhance support for the party’s programs.
“Party unity must be continuously nurtured to sustain past gains and secure a prosperous future.
“We therefore reaffirm our loyalty to the APC and our steadfast support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The CPC family remains a crucial pillar of the APC and will continue to play a responsible role in its growth and in Nigeria’s progress,” they pledged.
Other prominent members of the CPC bloc which endorsed the statement included former Education Minister, Malam Adamu Adamu; Okoi Okono-Obla, Sen Mustapha Salihu, Waziri Bulama and Jerry Johnson, among others.
