Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has called for a coalition of opposition figures in Nigeria to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a bold political move, El-Rufai invited prominent figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in forming a formidable opposition bloc.
El-Rufai’s appeal comes in the wake of his recent defection from the APC to the SDP, a decision he attributed to deep dissatisfaction with the direction of the ruling party. Speaking in a widely circulated interview with BBC Hausa Service, the former governor expressed disappointment with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, criticizing its failure to deliver on expectations despite early optimism.
“What pains me is that we supported this government, believing it would succeed based on what Tinubu did in Lagos. We all know his history, including the controversies surrounding him, but we thought he could replicate his Lagos success nationwide. Unfortunately, he has failed,” El-Rufai stated.
The former governor emphasized the need for unity among opposition leaders, urging them to set aside past political differences and work towards a common goal. He specifically called on Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Aregbesola to consider the SDP as a viable platform to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP is seen as part of a broader political realignment, with reports indicating that several former ministers who served under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari are also considering joining the party. The move suggests growing discontent among former APC members who feel alienated by the current administration’s policies and governance approach.
Addressing claims that he had previously betrayed Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai dismissed such allegations, stating that his decisions have always been based on principles rather than personal loyalty. “I never betrayed Atiku. Our relationship predates politics. If I see someone not performing well, I will say it, regardless of who they are. I did it with Buhari as well, even taking him to court over the naira redesign policy,” he explained.
Reflecting on past political conflicts, particularly the rift between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku, El-Rufai defended his stance at the time. “When Obasanjo and Atiku had issues, those of us working with Obasanjo analyzed the situation and found that Obasanjo was right. It was never about North or South; it was about what was right,” he added.
El-Rufai’s call for opposition unity signals a potential shake-up in Nigeria’s political landscape. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, his efforts to bring together key figures from different political backgrounds could reshape the country’s power dynamics. Whether his invitation to Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Aregbesola will be accepted remains uncertain, but his push for a united opposition suggests that the SDP could emerge as a significant force in the coming years.
BY AMIDAT SHITTU OPEYEMI
