2027: Leaked Memo Sparks Tension in Presidency Over Tinubu’s Move to Curb Defection of Buhari Loyalists
A leaked presidential memo has revealed that President Bola Tinubu is considering deploying former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura—a known ally of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari—to dissuade key members of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc from defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
With rising discontent ahead of the 2027 elections, Tinubu’s camp is reportedly offering Al-Makura a possible APC national chairmanship to rally Buhari’s loyalists and maintain party unity.
The leak surfaces amid reports that several high-profile figures—including former ministers, Senate President Ahmed Lawan, and ex-governors like Nasir El-Rufai—are aligning with the SDP, citing dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s leadership. Notably, El-Rufai has claimed Buhari’s blessing to leave the APC.
The situation has triggered concern within the ruling party, prompting urgent interventions by APC governors and top officials. Last week, a delegation led by Governor Hope Uzodimma met Buhari in Kaduna, urging him to intervene and prevent a major political fallout.
Analysts warn that mass defection from the CPC bloc, which includes powerful former ministers and party stalwarts, could pose a serious threat to APC’s electoral prospects in 2027.
