Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has thrown his weight behind a southern candidate to succeed President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. El-Rufai’s stance on power rotation and regional representation has sparked intense debate within Nigeria’s political landscape, with many praising his commitment to fairness and others questioning his motives.
During an interview on Arise News PrimeTime program, El-Rufai emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance in the country’s leadership. He argued that President Tinubu’s appointments should not be seen as favoring the South-West region, but rather as a reflection of his personal affiliations. El-Rufai stated, “Do not blame the entire South-West for Tinubu’s selective appointments. The Yoruba people are known for their integrity and fairness.”
El-Rufai’s comments have significant implications for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. His uncertainty about remaining in the party has fueled speculation about potential realignments in Nigeria’s political landscape. As a prominent figure in the APC, El-Rufai’s stance on power rotation and his own political future will likely influence key decisions within the party.
The debate on power rotation has been a contentious issue in Nigerian politics, with many advocating for a more equitable distribution of power among the country’s regions. El-Rufai’s support for a southern successor to President Tinubu has been seen as a significant step towards addressing this issue.
However, not everyone is convinced by El-Rufai’s motives. Some have questioned whether his support for a southern candidate is genuine or merely a strategic move to advance his own political interests. Others have criticized El-Rufai’s own record on power rotation, pointing out that he has not always practiced what he preaches.
Despite these criticisms, El-Rufai’s comments have sparked a necessary conversation about power rotation and regional representation in Nigeria. As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, it remains to be seen whether El-Rufai’s stance will have a lasting impact on the political landscape.
