Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has shared his thoughts on Nigeria’s shifting political dynamics, asserting that while opposition figure Atiku Abubakar remains a strong contender for the 2027 presidency, he may struggle against Peter Obi’s growing momentum.
In a post on X, Bashir referred to Atiku as “a force to be reckoned with,” suggesting the former vice president is optimistic that the political climate now favours his renewed bid—despite many believing his best chance was in the 2019 elections.
Nonetheless, Bashir pointed out that Peter Obi, who ran under the Labour Party in 2023, stands as a major challenge.
Highlighting Obi’s devoted supporters and his strong connection with younger Nigerians, Bashir described this widespread youth appeal as a significant strength in Obi’s favour.
He further predicted that if Obi were to run again with a “strong Northern candidate” as his running mate, he could decisively defeat President Bola Tinubu even before “Aunty Remi finishes his breakfast around noon,” a veiled jab referring to First Lady Remi Tinubu.
The post adds to the growing wave of political discourse ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as key figures like Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) continue to engage in coalition talks, with many political players now aligning under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Meanwhile, Bashir’s father, Nasir El-Rufai, who is also part of the emerging coalition, has been handed a 30-year suspension by the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In a statement, SDP spokesperson Araba Rufus Aiyenigba cautioned party members against associating with El-Rufai or any individual who does not align with the party’s values and objectives.
“El-Rufai is hereby banished and banned from applying for membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, symbol, mark, or any activities, organs, agencies, and institutions of the SDP or donating to, supporting, contributing to, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for 30 years effective from today,” Aiyenigba said.
