Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has denied any immediate plans to run for president in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, though he left a slight opening for future political developments.
In an interview with Arise TV on Friday, El-Rufai stated he has not decided to pursue the country’s highest office. “I have said this over and over, I’m not a candidate for any office,” he remarked. He added that he originally intended to be in Egypt pursuing a PhD but remains in Nigeria due to his role in the current administration’s formation. “Because I contributed to putting this government in place, I am still here to correct the decision,” he explained.
When asked directly about his 2027 intentions, El-Rufai was clear: “For now, I am not running.” However, he acknowledged the fluid nature of politics, saying, “You never say never in politics.” He noted that circumstances could shift if party leaders request his candidacy, but emphasized, “But the decision to run for president has not been made by me.”
El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a former minister, has consistently been discussed as a potential presidential contender. His recent public commentary on national issues and high-profile role in the party have fueled speculation about his ambitions. The governor’s statement serves to directly counter these rumors while maintaining political flexibility.
Beyond his personal plans, El-Rufai expressed serious concern about Nigeria’s trajectory, describing the nation as being in a “difficult situation.” His comments reflect ongoing anxieties among Nigeria’s political class regarding economic hardship, security challenges, and public discontent ahead of the next election cycle.
The denial places El-Rufai among several top politicians who have publicly downplayed presidential aspirations years before an election, a common tactic in Nigeria’s political landscape. His position as a key party elder and former executive governor ensures his political moves will remain under scrutiny. The focus now shifts to whether his stance shifts as the 2027 election timetable approaches and intra-party dynamics evolve within the APC.
