The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has left a vacumn too big to fill. It has triggered a fierce power struggle within the political ranks of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc, with prominent loyalists now jostling to assume control of the legacy he left behind.
Although the CPC officially merged with other parties to form the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, Buhari’s passing has reignited a wave of political maneuvering by figures formerly aligned with the party’s ideology.
Notable individuals staking claims to CPC’s leadership include former Nasarawa State Governor Senator Tanko Al-Makura, Confederation of APC Support Groups’ Director-General Prof. Muhammad Kailani, and NDLEA Chairman Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd). Others in the fray include Katsina State Governor Dr. Dikko Radda, former Governor Aminu Masari, ex-APC National Secretary Waziri Bulama, and several members of the 7th National Assembly.
Despite assertions by some veterans like Senator Abu Ibrahim that the CPC no longer exists as a political entity, recent moves suggest otherwise. Multiple political actors have begun aligning themselves as ideological custodians of Buhari’s political legacy, reigniting dormant rivalries under the APC umbrella.
Senator Al-Makura has emerged as a leading contender for the mantle. Through his aide, Ibraheem Hamza Muhammad—a member of the APC Independent Presidential Campaign Council—Al-Makura declared his rightful position as CPC’s enduring pillar, pointing to wide-ranging support from key allies. He cited a recent press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre where notable names such as Abu Ibrahim, Buba Marwa, Dikko Radda, and Osita Okechukwu openly backed him.
Supporters have described Al-Makura as the only person ever elected governor under the CPC platform. And the man who held the party together in its most turbulent years. Bauchi APC stalwart Labib Abdullahi Mahmood described him as a “silent hurricane” with deep political roots dating back to 1979. He further revealed that Al-Makura had held crucial meetings with both Buhari and President Tinubu in London, where Tinubu reportedly promised to compensate the CPC bloc for its loyalty.
The North Central APC Forum Chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, also emphasized Al-Makura’s standing, stating that even the late President Buhari acknowledged him as the bloc’s most senior figure. Zazzaga dismissed other contenders, noting that individuals like Buba Galadima had long detached themselves from the group’s core vision.
Meanwhile, Prof. Muhammad Kailani has declared his own intention to carry the CPC torch. Recalling his decades-long journey with Buhari through the APP, ANPP, CPC, and APC eras, Kailani claimed that Buhari had entrusted his followers to support the present government, insisting that they were instrumental in bringing the administration to power.
The unfolding leadership contest within the CPC remnants reveals the intensity of internal APC power dynamics as loyalists scramble to secure Buhari’s ideological inheritance and reposition themselves ahead of the next political cycle.
Who is Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura politician who has held various prominent positions. Here’s what we know about him:
Born in 1952 in Lafia, Nasarawa State, he attended Dunama Primary School, Keffi Teachers College, and Government Teachers College, Uyo. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education Degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
He served as governor from May 29, 2011, to May 29, 2019, on the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) ticket, which later merged with other parties to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He was elected senator in 2019, representing Nasarawa South senatorial district.
He was recently appointed Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission by President Bola Tinubu, promising to revamp basic education in Nigeria.
Known for his people-first approach, modesty, and strategic focus, he’s considered a unifying figure who inspires loyalty across party lines.
He is also a successful businessman with interests in real estate, hospitality, and agriculture. He owns The Wave, a 5-star hotel under construction in Abuja, and Ta’al Conference Hotel in Lafia.
There was a growing campaign for him to become the APC’s national chairman, with some believing his leadership style and experience would be beneficial for the party .
Can he step into Buhari’s shoes?
Tanko Al-Makura stepping into Buhari’s shoes is being discussed among political analysts and stakeholders.
Al-Makura has been mentioned as a potential leader of the CPC bloc within the APC, with some supporters arguing that he’s the rightful leader due to his seniority and experience. He has broad support from key figures like Governor Dikko Radda, Senator Abu Ibrahim, and General Buba Marwa.
Buhari’s Legacy: Buhari’s death has left a void in Nigerian politics, particularly in the North, where he had a significant following. Al-Makura’s ability to fill this void would depend on his ability to command loyalty and trust among Buhari’s supporters.
Analysts warn that the leadership tussle following Buhari’s death may deepen existing cracks within the Buhari political family and potentially accelerate defections from the APC. Some Buhari loyalists have already joined the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Potential Successors: Other potential successors mentioned include:
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso: Some believe he could fill the void left by Buhari in the North due to his experience and influence.
Kashim Shettima: As Vice President, he combines national exposure with northern roots and is seen as articulate and disciplined.
Atiku Abubakar: Although he may not enjoy the same cult following as Buhari, he could influence northern sentiment and has been mentioned as a potential candidate.
Ultimately, whether Al-Makura or anyone else can step into Buhari’s shoes will depend on their ability to inspire loyalty, trust, and confidence among Buhari’s supporters and the broader northern community.
Can he lead the CPC?
Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura is a strong contender to lead the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc. Here are some key points to consider:
Al-Makura has extensive experience in party and national assignments, including chairing the APC Ekiti State Primary Election Committee and the North-East Reconciliation Committee. He’s also a seasoned politician with a strong track record of loyalty to the APC.
Months back, the CPC bloc, which Al-Makura represents, had been vocal about their support for him to become the APC’s national chairman. They believe his leadership would stabilize the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. But this never happened.
Al-Makura’s candidacy was also seen as a nod to zoning and regional balance within the APC. The North-Central zone, which he represents, is considered due for the party chairmanship position.
Qualities and Strengths: Al-Makura’s supporters praise his
Experience. With a long history of public service, he’s well-equipped to navigate the complexities of party politics.
He’s known for his ability to bring people together and foster unity within the party.
As a person living with disability, Al-Makura has maintained active relations with Nigeria’s disability community, making him a strong advocate for inclusion.
While Al-Makura has significant support, he’s not without challenges. Some party members may have differing opinions on his candidacy, and he’ll need to navigate these complexities to succeed.
Overall, Al-Makura’s leadership credentials, CPC bloc support, and commitment to inclusivity make him a strong contender to lead the APC and the CPC bloc.
Umaru Tanko Al-Makura is a successful businessman. He founded Almakura Nigeria Limited & Ta’al Nigerian Limited, with interests in real estate, property development and agricultural machinery.
