2027: Major Defections Hit APC as Northern Heavyweights Back Opposition

Nigeria’s fast-rising opposition coalition received a major boost this week with the defection of two high-profile northern politicians, former Adamawa State Governor Jibrilla Bindow and ex-Senator Suleiman Nazif  both former members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development marks a significant political shift as the country prepares for a heated 2027 general election.

Nazif’s Move Sends Shockwaves Through Bauchi

Senator Suleiman Nazif, 55, a former lawmaker who represented Bauchi North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has now thrown his support behind the emerging opposition alliance.

His defection is raising eyebrows, particularly because Bauchi is a stronghold of the APC and also the home region of current Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Nazif’s entrance into the opposition fold is widely seen as strategic.

Political insiders believe his move could reshape power dynamics in the North, especially amid growing rumors that the APC may sideline Vice President Shettima ahead of the 2027 race.

If the speculation turns out to be true, Nazif could emerge as a major rallying figure for northern voters seeking an alternative to the ruling party.

A respected grassroots mobilizer with deep connections in northern Nigeria, Nazif’s political weight could significantly enhance the coalition’s credibility in the region.

Bindow’s Return to Atiku’s Camp Strengthens Opposition’s Base

Joining Nazif is Jibrilla Bindow, the former governor of Adamawa State who previously served as senator for Adamawa North between 2011 and 2015.

Bindow won the governorship in 2015 under the APC platform but was voted out in 2019.

Despite his ties to the ruling party, he has remained politically close to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Now formally part of the coalition, Bindow’s defection is being interpreted as both a personal endorsement of Atiku and a calculated political repositioning.

His return is especially significant as Adamawa is Atiku’s home state.

The move is expected to energize the opposition base there, solidify local support, and possibly reignite the political network Bindow once controlled as governor.

Observers say Bindow’s move represents yet another blow to the APC, which has suffered a string of high-profile defections in recent months.

His decision to align with the opposition could further weaken the ruling party’s grip in the Northeast and amplify concerns over growing internal discontent.

Political Implications for 2027

The defection of these two northern political heavyweights is more than symbolic it reflects deepening cracks within the APC and growing momentum around a broader anti-APC coalition.

As preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape, political analysts believe the inclusion of seasoned figures like Nazif and Bindow signals the opposition’s seriousness in mounting a real challenge.

With increasing speculation about leadership reshuffles within the APC and visible unrest among party loyalists, the ruling party may soon be forced to confront an uncomfortable reality  the tide of loyalty in the North is beginning to shift.

As the weeks unfold, all eyes will be on what comes next: more defections, power plays, or perhaps a complete realignment of political forces ahead of what promises to be one of Nigeria’s most consequential elections yet.

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