Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has boldly stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can rally all state governors, but if Nigerians reject him in 2027, it will be the end of the road for his presidency.
Speaking during a recent media chat in Kano State, El-Rufai, who recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), emphasized that the strength of Nigeria’s emerging opposition coalition lies with the people—not political officeholders.
“We are offering Nigerians a real alternative—something new and people-driven,” El-Rufai asserted. “A governor only has one vote. But the people? They hold the power to decide the future.”
A People-Focused Strategy
El-Rufai explained that their coalition’s approach is grassroots-focused, mobilizing everyday Nigerians instead of relying on governors and political elites. Reflecting on the 2023 elections, he cited how Tinubu lost Lagos State despite having the support of the sitting governor.
“I was the Governor of Kaduna. I tried hard to deliver Tinubu, but I lost. That taught me—elections are won by the people, not politicians.”
No Merger With PDP, Says El-Rufai
El-Rufai’s remarks follow recent speculation about potential alliances between opposition figures and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This came after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other coalition leaders visited former President Muhammadu Buhari.
However, PDP governors have publicly distanced themselves from any merger plans. After a meeting in Ibadan attended by acting PDP Chairman Umar Damagum, the PDP Governors’ Forum clearly rejected talks of a coalition.
“We are not looking to merge with the PDP,” El-Rufai clarified. “That party is a spent force. Our coalition is about creating a fresh alternative that can inspire trust and hope among Nigerians.”
Building a Fresh Political Force Under the SDP
According to El-Rufai, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was chosen as the coalition’s platform after a careful evaluation of parties unlikely to be deregistered by INEC. He cited the party’s historical relevance and legal standing, noting it still requires development.
“We’ve learned from past mistakes. Our goal is to build a party with strong internal democracy—not one controlled by godfathers,” he said.
He added that the coalition is not focused on choosing a presidential candidate yet. Instead, it is prioritizing the platform’s development and encouraging aspirants to join the movement first.
“Anyone with presidential ambitions must first help build the structure. The time for candidacy will come,” he added.
Nigeria’s Survival Beyond Ethnic Politics
El-Rufai stressed that Nigeria’s current crisis goes beyond North vs South or religious divides. He called for unity and leadership focused on solving real problems.
“We’re facing an existential crisis. Whoever can bring progress and unity—no matter their origin—deserves our support.”
In conclusion, El-Rufai reaffirmed the coalition’s mission to give Nigerians a credible alternative and break free from political recycling. The focus, he says, is on building a party for the people, by the people, with internal democracy and national interest at its core.
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