El-Rufai's Bombshell: Plotting Tinubu’s Return to Lagos in 2027

By Eve Omayrs 

In what appears to be the clearest sign yet of a brewing political storm, former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has thrown the first public jab in what could become a full-blown campaign against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second term ambitions.

Speaking at a recent gathering, El-Rufai revealed the existence of a political coalition designed specifically to unseat the current administration in the 2027 general elections. His words were as direct as they were unsettling to the current power structure.

"We had a very important meeting with the coalition that we are putting together to ensure that Pres. Tinubu goes back to Lagos," El-Rufai said, triggering a whirlwind of speculation, analysis, and political recalibration across Nigeria’s political class.

Though he stopped short of revealing the full lineup of this burgeoning alliance, insiders suggest that the coalition could include several disgruntled party stalwarts, aggrieved northern power brokers, and elements of the opposition who see Tinubu’s presidency as a deviation from their long-established political calculations.

The former FCT Minister is known for his audacity and unfiltered declarations, but this latest salvo marks a significant escalation. It also reinforces whispers in the corridors of power that El-Rufai, who has been relatively quiet since leaving office, may be gearing up for a major political comeback—perhaps even eyeing the top seat himself or backing a formidable alternative.

Political observers see this move as both a warning shot and a strategic declaration of intent. With the economic challenges facing the country and rising public discontent, some believe El-Rufai is positioning himself or his allies as saviors-in-waiting.

The Presidency, on the other hand, has yet to officially respond. But sources within the ruling party describe El-Rufai’s statement as "reckless" and "disloyal," especially considering his past closeness to the Tinubu camp.

As 2027 inches closer, one thing is clear: the gloves are off, and the race to shape Nigeria’s future has already begun—no longer in whispers behind closed doors, but in bold declarations before a watching nation.