Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has sparked political discourse with a recent statement shared on X, describing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a formidable force in the race for the 2027 Nigerian presidency.
El-Rufai suggested that Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in 2019, believes “the stars have finally aligned in his favor” for a potential victory, despite 2019 being widely regarded as his strongest campaign to date.
In his statement, El-Rufai framed the current political moment as one where “the moment meets the man” for Atiku, emphasizing the former vice president’s enduring influence and strategic positioning.
However, he highlighted a significant challenge posed by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, whose “sheer force of numbers and cult-like followership” among Nigerian youth presents a formidable obstacle.
El-Rufai noted Obi’s profound appeal to younger generations as a key factor in his growing political leverage.
El-Rufai went further, speculating that Obi, if paired with a strong northern running mate, could decisively defeat President Bola Tinubu—whom he referred to as “Pablo”—on election day, humorously adding that the victory would be secured “before our dear mother of the Nation, Aunty Remi, finishes his breakfast around 12 noon.”
The reference to Remi Tinubu, the First Lady, shows El-Rufai’s characteristic flair for provocative political commentary.
The statement has ignited reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape, with analysts viewing it as a reflection of the intensifying rivalry ahead of 2027.
Atiku, who has contested multiple presidential elections, remains a dominant figure within the PDP, while Obi’s grassroots momentum, particularly among young voters, has reshaped opposition dynamics.
El-Rufai’s comments also hint at the strategic importance of northern alliances in determining the next election’s outcome.
As Nigeria’s political scene heats up, observers are closely watching how Atiku, Obi, and Tinubu navigate the complex interplay of regional, generational, and party loyalties in the lead-up to 2027.
El-Rufai’s remarks, blending analysis with sharp wit, have added fuel to an already charged political conversation.
Read full statement below;
"Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He also feels the stars have finally aligned in his favor. And although 2019 is thought to had been his best shot, this may be one of those “moment meets the man”.
"However the sheer force of Obi’s numbers and cult like follower-ship brings a challenge. His appeal across the youth & this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage.
"Obi as a flag bearer with a strong Northern candidate would defeat Pablo on Election Day before our dear mother of the Nation — Aunty Remi finishes his breakfast around 12 noon."
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