According to The Sun, former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed strong reservations about the re-election chances of President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking in Abuja, El-Rufai openly dismissed the prospect of Tinubu securing a second term, insisting that the political climate and public sentiment in Nigeria have shifted significantly against the ruling party. He linked this change to the mounting dissatisfaction among citizens over current economic conditions and governance performance. El-Rufai, who played a notable role in the political rise of the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggested that the dynamics that once favoured the party no longer exist, pointing to a national mood that he believes leans towards change.
While interacting with reporters, El-Rufai pointed out that although the APC is experiencing an influx of defectors, this development is not necessarily a sign of political strength or renewed public support. Instead, he argued that many of those joining the party are doing so for personal benefits, including the pursuit of appointments and contracts. He emphasized that these movements are not rooted in genuine support for the party’s ideology or leadership. According to him, such political manoeuvring might create a false sense of security within the party’s leadership, but in reality, the general populace remains dissatisfied and disillusioned.
He further reflected on his tenure as governor of Kaduna State, recalling how the APC suffered electoral setbacks even when it controlled the state machinery. El-Rufai noted that this demonstrated the determination of Nigerian voters to act independently and make choices that reflect their expectations, rather than being influenced by party loyalty or pressure from political elites. He used this past experience to underline his belief that power no longer lies with party structures or state governors, but with the electorate who are increasingly demanding accountability and change.
El-Rufai did not shy away from criticizing both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), labeling them as out of touch with the needs and expectations of the average Nigerian. He maintained that the frustrations of the public have grown to the point where they are no longer willing to settle for traditional political options. According to him, this widespread discontent has created an opening for a new political movement or coalition that could potentially unseat the current leadership. He described the mood of the country as one of exhaustion with the status quo, driven by economic hardship, insecurity, and a perceived lack of direction at the federal level.
He also made reference to individuals who have defected from one party to another, suggesting that many of them are under scrutiny from anti-graft agencies. El-Rufai questioned the sincerity and credibility of these political actors, implying that their motives are not driven by a commitment to public service or reform. He raised concerns about the integrity of such politicians and the implications of their growing influence within the APC. This, he believes, weakens the party’s standing in the eyes of voters who are increasingly skeptical of recycled political figures.
In terms of electoral prospects, El-Rufai categorically stated that the idea of President Tinubu securing another term in office is unrealistic. He described it as a fantasy, asserting that anyone who believes in such a possibility is disconnected from the realities on the ground. According to him, the hardships faced by many Nigerians under the current administration have eroded any goodwill that might have existed at the beginning of Tinubu’s term. He emphasized that no amount of political marketing or alliance-building can override the dissatisfaction that has taken root among the populace.
The former governor appeared to suggest that the only path forward for the country is a total reset of its political landscape. He called for the emergence of a new coalition that reflects the true aspirations of Nigerians, rather than perpetuating the cycle of political opportunism that he believes characterizes the existing parties. El-Rufai seemed optimistic about the chances of such a coalition emerging, especially in light of what he described as increasing awareness and participation among citizens. He appeared confident that Nigerian voters are ready to embrace a political alternative that prioritizes development, equity, and transparency.
He said: “Anybody that thinks that it is possible for President Bola Tinubu to get re-elected, is living in another country, not Nigeria. It is impossible for Bola Tinubu to get re-elected.
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