By Mohammed Bello Doka
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has called on the North to rekindle its political alliance with the South-South region, insisting that a strategic partnership is crucial to “save Nigeria” from its current challenges. His statement, which has sparked political discourse, comes at a time when opposition figures are reportedly engaged in strategic meetings ahead of the 2027 general elections.
El-Rufai made the remarks on Friday while leading a delegation to pay a condolence visit to the family of the late Niger Delta elder statesman and leader, Edwin Clark, who passed away on February 17. Speaking during the visit, El-Rufai reflected on the deep historical bond between the North and the South-South, urging political stakeholders to restore that collaboration for the nation’s survival.
“In the 60s, 70s, and 80s, the North’s traditional political partners were from the South-South. Let us not forget that. Let us go back to that. Let us save this country because it really requires saving. We need a rescue operation,” El-Rufai declared.
His comments come at a time of heightened political maneuvering, with opposition heavyweights reportedly engaging in behind-the-scenes discussions about coalition-building to challenge the ruling party in the next general elections. The call for a renewed North-South-South alliance has added another dimension to the ongoing political realignments, with many interpreting El-Rufai’s statement as an indication of a possible major opposition coalition in the making.
During the visit, El-Rufai was accompanied by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a long-standing political figure who has been vocal about governance and economic reforms. El-Rufai praised Atiku for his contributions to Nigeria’s economic development, particularly during his tenure as Vice President under President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007.
“Atiku was at the forefront of economic reforms that repositioned Nigeria during the Obasanjo administration. His role in attracting investment and restructuring the economy was crucial,” El-Rufai remarked, reinforcing his stance on the importance of experienced leadership in tackling Nigeria’s current economic woes.
Edwin Clark, until his passing, remained a formidable voice in Nigeria’s political landscape, advocating for the rights of the Niger Delta and national unity. His death has reignited conversations on regional partnerships and national development, making El-Rufai’s call for renewed alliances even more significant.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, political observers see El-Rufai’s statement as part of a broader effort by key opposition figures to reposition themselves for the next political battle. The question now remains whether the North-South-South alliance he envisions will materialize and if it will be strong enough to alter Nigeria’s political trajectory.