Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has issued a stern warning that Nigeria’s already fragile social capital risks complete destruction if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are re-elected in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Thursday during a grassroots mobilisation campaign organised by the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, El-Rufai did not mince words in his critique of the current administration.
“If this government is returned in 2027, I fear that Nigeria’s social fabric — our unity, trust, and national sense of purpose — may be completely destroyed,” El-Rufai said to a cheering crowd of party supporters and community leaders.
The former governor, once a powerful figure within the APC and key architect of its 2015 and 2019 electoral victories, has increasingly distanced himself from the Tinubu-led federal government, citing what he calls “a dangerous deviation from the promises of change and reform.”
From Party Insider to Fierce Critic
El-Rufai’s latest comments mark a sharp escalation in his public opposition to the Tinubu presidency. While he has previously expressed concerns about economic management and national security, this is the first time he has openly called for regime change at the ballot in 2027.
“We cannot pretend that all is well when insecurity is rising, poverty is deepening, and leadership is increasingly detached from the people,” El-Rufai declared.
He praised the ADC’s efforts to mobilise at the grassroots, describing the coalition as a “viable platform for national rescue.”
ADC Positions Itself as an Alternative
The ADC, which is working to consolidate a broad opposition front ahead of the 2027 elections, welcomed El-Rufai’s presence and remarks, calling them “a courageous call to conscience.”
ADC National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said El-Rufai’s participation is a sign that “prominent Nigerians who care about the future of this country are beginning to speak out and stand up.”
The Sokoto mobilisation rally is part of a nationwide campaign by the ADC to engage local communities, traditional rulers, and youth groups on issues of governance, economic hardship, and national unity.
APC Yet to Respond
As of press time, the APC and the Presidency had not issued any official response to El-Rufai’s comments. However, sources within the ruling party described the remarks as “disappointing but not surprising,” given El-Rufai’s recent fallout with party leadership over ministerial appointments and policy disagreements.
Political analysts say El-Rufai’s stance could carry weight among northern voters, especially considering his longstanding influence in the region and his reputation for bold, unfiltered opinions.
2027: The Battle Lines Are Forming
With just under two years to the next general elections, the political temperature is already rising. El-Rufai’s open criticism of Tinubu — and his appearance on an opposition platform — signals a potential realignment of political forces.
Observers say if more former APC insiders begin to lend their voices to the opposition, the 2027 elections could present a serious test of the ruling party’s hold on power.
