El-Rufai’s Visit To Aregbesola, Bakare Sparks 2027 Election Speculations

Former Kaduna Governor’s Political Moves Raise Questions About His Future in APC

Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has ignited fresh political speculations following his visit to ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos on Sunday. The meeting, which was made public through viral photographs on social media, has fueled discussions about El-Rufai’s political future and potential strategic alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Although details of their discussions were not disclosed, political observers believe that the visits are part of El-Rufai’s ongoing maneuvering, particularly given his recent criticisms of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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El-Rufai’s Growing Discontent with APC and Tinubu

El-Rufai, a chieftain of the APC, has increasingly distanced himself from the party’s leadership. His recent criticism of Tinubu’s administration stems from his failed ministerial nomination, which was rejected by the National Assembly. The former Kaduna governor has openly accused Tinubu of orchestrating his exclusion from the federal cabinet and has taken jabs at key figures in the government, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

During an interview on Arise Television, El-Rufai hinted at leaving the APC, stating that the party had already sidelined him. When asked if he would support Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, he dodged the question, further fueling speculation about his political direction.

El-Rufai’s Meetings with Opposition Figures and Political Outsiders

El-Rufai’s latest visits follow his recent meeting with former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna. His engagements with figures like Aregbesola and Bakare—both of whom have had strained relationships with Tinubu—suggest a possible realignment ahead of the next election cycle.

Aregbesola, a former close ally of Tinubu, recently severed ties with the APC in Osun State, while Bakare, a former presidential aspirant under the APC, has been vocal in his criticism of the Tinubu administration. These interactions, along with El-Rufai’s past engagements with opposition figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have raised questions about his political allegiance moving forward.

APC Downplays El-Rufai’s Movements

Despite the growing speculation, the APC leadership appears unbothered by El-Rufai’s movements. When asked about his recent meetings, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, dismissed the issue, stating that the party has “more serious work to do than to comment on anybody roaming around.”

Similarly, APC National Deputy Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, downplayed the significance of the visits, suggesting that they were merely friendly interactions. “At the end of the day, if it leads to something beyond that, we then need to make demands. But for now, it’s just a meeting of friends,” he said.

What Lies Ahead for El-Rufai?

El-Rufai’s political trajectory remains uncertain, but his recent engagements indicate that he is actively exploring his options. Whether he remains in the APC or aligns himself with another political movement, his actions will be closely watched as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections.

As political alliances continue to shift, El-Rufai’s next moves could have significant implications for both the APC and the broader political landscape in Nigeria.