Opposition Can Topple Tinubu Without Governors’ Backing, Says El-Rufai

By Mahdi Waziri Isa

Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State governor, has asserted that Nigeria’s growing opposition movement can unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027—even without the support of state governors.

El-Rufai, who recently joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after leaving the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), made the remarks during a media engagement in Kano on Monday. He argued that while Tinubu may rally every governor behind him, victory ultimately rests with the electorate.

“A governor has only one vote. Nigerians have many more votes than one governor or even 36 governors combined,” he said, emphasizing a strategy focused on mobilizing ordinary voters rather than political elites.

The comments follow speculation about opposition alliances, particularly after a recent visit by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other coalition figures to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. However, PDP governors have denied any merger plans, with their forum publicly dismissing coalition talks after a meeting in Ibadan.

El-Rufai dismissed the significance of governors’ support, recalling Tinubu’s 2023 loss in Lagos despite having an incumbent governor.

“The president had a sitting governor in Lagos—and still lost Lagos. So, what is the real value of a governor?” he questioned. Reflecting on his own failed efforts to deliver Kaduna for Tinubu as governor, he added: “I fought hard to deliver President Tinubu in my state, but I lost. That taught me a hard lesson—that elections are ultimately decided by the people, not by political figures.”

The former governor clarified that the coalition’s goal is not a merger with the PDP, which he called a “spent force.” Instead, the movement seeks to build a credible alternative under the SDP banner.

“We are not looking at political parties that are already ravaged by internal conflicts. We are building something fresh, something that will inspire hope,” he said.

El-Rufai also addressed potential presidential candidates, stating that the focus remains on strengthening the platform before selecting flagbearers.

“We have told all those with presidential aspirations: put aside your ambitions for now. Join us as equal members and help us build a credible alternative,” he insisted.