Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has warned opposition political leaders against attempting to involve former President Muhammadu Buhari in any coalition aimed at challenging the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

The governor made the statement in Lafia on Friday during a grand reception held in honour of Labaran Magaji, the newly appointed Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government (SSG). The event was organised by the 13 local government chairmen in recognition of Magaji’s public service.

Speaking to the crowd of political leaders, legal professionals, traditional rulers, and community representatives, Governor Sule dismissed speculations that the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc might align with a new political movement led by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. The rumoured coalition is reportedly being formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the APC in 2027.

Sule stressed that Buhari remains loyal to the APC and will not be part of any opposition arrangement.

“There is nothing like taking CPC away. The only person who can speak for CPC is our father, Muhammadu Buhari,” Sule said.

“He carries the CPC identity and his 12 million loyal supporters with him. We met with him in Kaduna and told him clearly: ‘Baba, you’re not leaving. We’re staying in this APC house together and building it stronger.’”

The governor described Buhari as a foundational figure in the APC and stated that his loyalty to the party remains unchanged, especially considering the achievements recorded under President Tinubu since 2023.

The reception also served to spotlight Labaran Magaji’s accomplishments. Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, who chaired the occasion, praised Magaji’s tenure as the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Malami highlighted reforms that expedited criminal case resolution and empowered Area Court Judges to handle cases more effectively.

“He introduced alternative sentencing to decongest prisons and ensured some criminal cases were resolved within four weeks—an impressive feat,” Malami said.

State ALGON Chairman, Safiyanu Andaha, described Magaji as a seasoned administrator with deep political and governance experience. He commended Governor Sule for appointing someone with a proven track record of service.

In his vote of thanks, Magaji expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and pledged to remain committed, transparent, and diligent in his new role.