ABUJA — In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian political establishment, a prominent Islamic cleric has alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is moving to deploy a staggering ₦500 billion to hijack the 2027 elections.
The cleric, whose claims were highlighted by veteran broadcaster Reuben Abati, sent tremors through the North by asserting he was personally approached with a lucrative offer to mobilise key regional leaders. In a move that has stunned political observers, the religious leader reportedly declared: “I rejected the offer.”
According to the bombshell allegations, the gargantuan sum was earmarked to “soften the ground” across the North, targeting influential traditional and religious figures to ensure the region remains locked down for the APC ahead of the next general election. The cleric’s refusal to play ball has pulled back the curtain on what critics are calling a desperate and “monstrous” financial war chest aimed at silencing dissent.
The Fallout:
- Political Earthquake: If true, the ₦500 billion figure would represent one of the largest alleged political “mobilization” funds in Nigerian history, dwarfing previous election cycles.
- Northern Resistance: The cleric’s public rejection is being viewed as a massive blow to the APC’s outreach strategy, signaling a growing rift between the ruling party and the Northern religious elite.
- Opposition Roar: Rival parties are already seizing on the report, calling for an immediate probe into the source of such a “mind-boggling” amount of cash while millions of Nigerians struggle with record inflation.
The APC has yet to issue an official response to these “pay-to-play” allegations, but the “Abuja Grapevine” is already buzzing with talk of a major internal investigation to plug the leaks.
