In a surprising turn of events, Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has publicly mocked the administration of President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that the government is in a state of panic ahead of the 2027 general elections. Bashir’s comments have sparked widespread discussion, particularly within political circles in northern Nigeria.
Over the past few weeks, Nasir El-Rufai has been seen meeting with several prominent northern politicians, fueling speculation that there may be a northern political strategy aimed at challenging Tinubu’s leadership. These meetings have intensified rumors of a potential rift within the political landscape, with some suggesting that northern politicians might be plotting against the Tinubu administration.
Former senator and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Shehu Sani recently added fuel to the fire by accusing northern politicians of conspiring against President Tinubu as the 2027 elections approach. Sani took to social media to urge the northern political bloc to support Tinubu’s administration and allow him to complete his eight-year term in office.
Bashir El-Rufai, however, was quick to respond to Sani’s plea on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “Lmao. They are getting jittery & sending the wrongest person from the North to advocate for their propaganda, with absolutely no electoral value to his name but his old glory days of supposedly fighting for democracy & being locked in prison like he was Mandela.”
Sani’s advocacy for the Tinubu government came to light during an event organized by the administration to commemorate Democracy Day. At the event, Sani praised President Tinubu, describing him as the “father of protests” during Nigeria’s military era. This endorsement is notable given Sani’s background as a human rights activist and former senator.
In the wake of the 2023 general elections, several former PDP chieftains have voiced their support for the Tinubu administration. Notable figures among them include former spokespersons for Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate, Reno Omokri and Daniel Bwala, as well as former senator Ben Murray-Bruce.
The political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections are becoming increasingly complex, with various factions and prominent figures positioning themselves strategically. The Tinubu administration’s response to these emerging challenges will be crucial in determining its stability and effectiveness in the coming years. As speculation continues to swirl, the political climate in Nigeria remains charged, with all eyes on the unfolding developments in the northern political arena.
