Key chieftains of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC)—a legacy party in the 2013 merger that birthed the All Progressives Congress (APC)—have dismissed speculations suggesting plans to dump the ruling party.
A group of 23 prominent former CPC members, including former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-Katsina State Governor, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, made the declaration on Wednesday after a strategic meeting in Abuja.
The group pledged unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and called on APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to foster a more transparent and inclusive administration.
Dismissing Defection Rumours
In a joint statement, the former CPC leaders described recent media reports alleging a defection to opposition coalitions as “false, mischievous, and unfounded.”
“We, the undersigned leaders and committed members of the former CPC, reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to the APC and our strong support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the statement read.
“Contrary to the misleading narratives, we remain fully aligned with the vision and leadership of the APC. The CPC bloc is one of the party’s foundational pillars, and we are resolute in upholding its progressive ideals.”
Although internal checks revealed that some ex-CPC members are in talks with opposition groups led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the core CPC loyalists maintained that “neither we nor the CPC family has defected or plans to defect.”
They also noted that former President Muhammadu Buhari—the face of the CPC before the merger—has recently reiterated his loyalty to the APC.
Endorsing Tinubu’s Reforms
The group voiced full support for President Tinubu’s ongoing reform agenda, acknowledging the tough economic decisions being implemented to restore long-term growth and national prosperity.
“While these reforms may be challenging, they are necessary steps toward rebuilding our economy. We urge Nigerians to be patient and continue to support the administration as the benefits of these policies become more evident.”
Appeal for Unity and Internal Dialogue
Recognizing that some party members may be aggrieved, the CPC bloc urged them to channel their concerns through the party’s internal structures rather than resorting to public criticisms or exits.
“This is a defining moment in Nigeria’s democracy. All APC members—particularly those from the CPC fold—must work collectively to preserve our legacy and uphold national stability,” the statement said.
The group also called on the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Ganduje to improve grassroots engagement and internal communication within the party.
“Strengthening dialogue with members at all levels will reduce tensions, address exclusion, and reinforce support for the party’s policies,” they added.
Final Stand
“We therefore reaffirm our loyalty to the APC and our unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The CPC bloc remains a key pillar in the APC’s structure and will continue to contribute responsibly to the party’s progress and the nation’s development.”
