Former Kaduna Governor El Rufai says he has no 2027 ambition and calls Tinubu’s government evil, urging Nigerians to unite for credible leadership
El Rufai slams Tinubu government for what he described as a tragic failure that must be urgently removed from power.
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In a forthright interview on Arise News, the former Governor of Kaduna State and ex-Minister of the Federal Capital Territory declared that he holds no ambition to run in the 2027 presidential race.
He stated that his only desire is to see the current government led by President Bola Tinubu voted out. El Rufai did not hide his contempt, saying Nigerians were tired of the ruling All Progressives Congress and ready for an alternative that prioritises national interest over personal gain.
“We have polled it. There is 91% disapproval of this administration across the country,” he said. “91% disapproval is the worst in Nigeria’s history. That’s the key thing.”
According to El Rufai, Nigeria’s democracy is in urgent need of rescue. He called on politicians to shelve personal ambition in favour of unity and credible leadership that can reverse what he sees as a dangerous trajectory.
When asked if he could cooperate with other political heavyweights such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, El Rufai said ambition does not drive his current political thinking.
“You’ve mentioned my name. I have no ambition,” he said. “I just feel that having contributed to bringing about this tragedy to Nigeria by contributing to the emergence of Tinubu as president, I should contribute in my last lap. I’m 65.
I should be retiring. Let me contribute towards removing this evil that I believe will destroy Nigeria if left unchecked.”
His comments have sparked fresh debate within the political class and renewed speculation about the possibility of a united opposition front ahead of 2027.
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Whether such a coalition can emerge remains to be seen, but El Rufai’s statement has further exposed deep cracks in the ruling party and raised questions about its future viability.
