Former APC support groups back Atiku, launch coalition to ‘rescue Nigeria’

In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, a network of support groups formerly affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared allegiance to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

The movement, led by Ismaila Abu Ishaq, a former member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, has rebranded itself as the Coalition for Project Rescue Nigeria 2027, with the stated mission of ending APC’s rule and revitalizing the country under a new leadership.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday after leading the group on a courtesy visit to Atiku at his Abuja residence, Ishaq stated that the decision to break ranks with the APC stemmed from deep disillusionment with what he described as “the failed leadership” of the ruling party.

“We are no longer with the APC. Today, we formally align ourselves with a tested, credible, and visionary leader in the person of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar,” Ishaq declared.

“Our country is facing a crisis—crippling insecurity, collapsing infrastructure, a worsening economy, widespread hunger and despair. The APC has clearly failed, and it is time for a rescue mission.”

He explained that the newly formed coalition is more than a political pressure group—it is envisioned as a “national salvation project” aimed at galvanizing Nigerians to restore unity, progress, and prosperity.

“The Coalition for Project Rescue Nigeria 2027 will serve as a mass movement of conscience and action,” Ishaq added.

“We are drawing inspiration from the achievements of the Obasanjo–Atiku era, which was marked by macroeconomic stability, infrastructure expansion, and genuine efforts at national reconciliation.”

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In a show of appreciation, Atiku Abubakar welcomed the endorsement and commended the coalition’s members for their courage and patriotism.

He expressed concern over Nigeria’s current trajectory, lamenting the deterioration of the economy under the Tinubu-led APC administration.

“It pains me to see the strong economy that successive PDP governments built being so recklessly dismantled,” Atiku said. “But I am glad that Nigerians are waking up. The energy and commitment of this coalition are what we need to reclaim the future of our great nation.”

The former Vice President pledged to mentor and support young Nigerians, urging them to play active roles in the democratic process.

He emphasized the need for sustained engagement and strategic mobilization to ensure a return to competent and people-focused governance.

“This is not just about politics. It is about the soul of our country,” Atiku stressed. “We must remain vigilant, organized, and democratic in our approach. Only through democratic participation can we rebuild Nigeria and secure a brighter future for the next generation.”

Political analysts view the coalition’s defection as a symbolic but potentially significant realignment, especially as discontent continues to grow over rising living costs, inflation, and the performance of the APC-led federal government.

With the 2027 election cycle looming and opposition forces seeking to regroup, the emergence of the Coalition for Project Rescue Nigeria 2027 signals a renewed push to challenge the ruling party’s dominance and reshape the national political landscape.