Former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has firmly stated he will not contest the El-Rufai 2027 elections, emphasizing his renewed political role focuses solely on supporting credible leadership at both state and national levels.
El-Rufai made the declaration in Kaduna on Wednesday while addressing a group of PDP youths who defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stressing that he holds no personal ambition regarding the El-Rufai 2027 elections.
Speaking critically about the current administration, the former governor said Nigerians clearly recognise its failures without requiring further explanation.
“This is a government that does nothing but lie every day. Everyone’s conscience knows the truth. I am not contesting for anything; I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not contesting for any position. That is why I am calling on you: let us join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors,” El-Rufai declared.
He explained that his initial plan after leaving office was to step away from partisan politics, but recent developments compelled him to return—not with personal ambition, but to support credible leadership.
“When I finished my tenure as governor of Kaduna, my intention was to rest. But given the way things have turned out, I believe we must play our part to bring about better leadership. That is why we are back in politics,” he added.
El-Rufai Rejects Political Ambition, Focuses on Mentorship
El-Rufai stressed his priority now is mentoring young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians to actively participate in the political process.
He encouraged youths to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise, noting: “In Lagos and Osun, at least 600,000 people registered. But in Kaduna, only 60,000. Anyone who is 18 years old should go and register, even with your phone. Registration gives you the right to choose who governs you.”
He further urged vigilance in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
In his remarks, Aliyu Bello, who led the PDP defectors to ADC, reiterated his commitment to empowering young people and discouraging political thuggery.