Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has called on opposition figures to intensify political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that efforts to unseat the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must remain unwavering.
El-Rufai made the remarks during a meeting with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in Abuja, where he reportedly expressed concern over what he described as increasing political pressure on opposition actors. In comments attributed to him by aides and shared through political channels, he stated that the opposition “must not sleep” until it achieves electoral victory in 2027.
The statement comes amid claims that security agencies attempted to detain El-Rufai at an airport upon his return to Nigeria. As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, or the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria verifying that an arrest attempt took place. No formal charge or warrant has been publicly disclosed in relation to the former governor.
El-Rufai, a prominent political figure and former member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, has in recent months been vocal about his evolving political alignment and broader opposition strategy. His meeting with Atiku has fueled speculation about emerging alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle. Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election, has also maintained a visible presence in opposition politics, advocating coalition-building among parties seeking to challenge the incumbent administration.
Political analysts view El-Rufai’s remarks as part of early positioning for 2027, with opposition figures attempting to consolidate influence and mobilize grassroots support. They note that rhetoric calling for political change is common in the aftermath of contested elections and during periods of intra-party realignment.
The Presidency has not issued a response to El-Rufai’s recent comments. Government officials have consistently maintained that Nigeria’s democratic system allows for lawful political competition and that security institutions operate within constitutional boundaries.
Observers caution that allegations of attempted detention, if substantiated, would warrant official clarification to avoid speculation. However, without documentary evidence or institutional acknowledgment, the claim remains unverified.
As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 polls, statements from leading figures such as El-Rufai and Atiku underscore the increasingly competitive tone shaping Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
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