Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is back in the political spotlight with his recent visit to former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, and prominent cleric, Pastor Tunde Bakare, in Lagos. While the details of their discussions remain undisclosed, the timing and political weight of these figures suggest the meeting was far from casual.
Aregbesola, once a key ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has found himself increasingly distanced from the political structure he helped build. His fallout with Tinubu, stemming from disagreements over Osun State politics and his role in the APC, has left him politically isolated in some quarters. El-Rufai, who has also had his own share of political setbacks after being dropped from Tinubu’s ministerial list, appears to be forging new alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Is El-Rufai Building a Political Bloc?
El-Rufai’s calculated visit suggests a deeper political maneuvering at play. Aregbesola, despite his issues with Tinubu, remains an influential figure in the APC, particularly among progressives who feel sidelined by the current government. Bakare, on the other hand, is known for his sharp critiques of Nigeria’s leadership and his past presidential ambition. With both figures sharing a strained relationship with the ruling establishment, El-Rufai’s engagement with them raises speculation about a possible new political front.
Could this meeting signal the beginning of a power bloc within the APC, or even the foundation of an alternative political movement? While it may be too early to draw conclusions, the signs are clear that El-Rufai is positioning himself for a major role in the 2027 elections—either as a candidate or as a kingmaker.
The 2027 Factor: APC’s Internal Cracks and the Opposition’s Chances
The APC’s internal struggles, particularly the widening rift between Tinubu’s camp and his former loyalists like Aregbesola, could shape the party’s chances in 2027. If these divisions persist, the ruling party may enter the elections fragmented, creating an opening for opposition parties or dissatisfied APC members to mount a serious challenge.
El-Rufai’s political ambition has never been in doubt. His ability to navigate power dynamics and remain relevant, even after being sidelined, is a testament to his strategic thinking. With economic hardship mounting and public discontent growing, Nigerians may be looking for alternatives, and politicians like El-Rufai, Aregbesola, and Bakare could see this as an opportunity to reshape the political landscape.
A Prelude to a Major Shake-Up?
In Nigerian politics, meetings like this rarely happen without a bigger agenda. Whether El-Rufai is testing the waters for a new movement, seeking to mend broken relationships, or laying the groundwork for a post-Tinubu political future, one thing is certain—political realignments are already in motion.
As 2027 approaches, the battle lines are slowly being drawn, and this meeting could be the first sign of major shake-ups to come. Will El-Rufai, Aregbesola, and Bakare play a significant role in Nigeria’s next political chapter? Time will tell, but one thing is clear—this visit was not just about pleasantries.
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