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2027 election: "I will not contest any office," - El-Rufai declares

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El Rufai’s “What 2027” — A Long‑Awaited Clarification on His Next Political Chapter

After years of speculation, former Kaduna governor and national security adviser Muhammadu El Rufai has finally set the record straight on his political future. In a televised interview on his own YouTube channel, which was subsequently highlighted by Legit.ng, the former “minister of works” laid out a measured, if cautious, roadmap that leaves no room for the usual conjecture about the 2027 presidential race.

A Brief Snapshot of El Rufai’s Career

El Rufai’s résumé is a compendium of high‑profile appointments that has made him one of the most recognizable figures in contemporary Nigerian politics. He first governed Kaduna State (2007‑2015), then briefly served as National Security Adviser under President Buhari (2015‑2016), before returning to the state to finish a second term (2019‑2023). Most recently, he was appointed Minister of Works & Housing in 2021, a role he held until his resignation in early 2024 amid a cabinet reshuffle.

Over the last decade, El Rufai has built a reputation for pragmatism, infrastructure development, and a “no‑nonsense” approach to governance. Yet, his trajectory has also been punctuated by rumours about his next big move, especially as the 2027 election – the next scheduled presidential election – looms on the horizon.

The Interview: “I’m Not Ready for 2027”

When pressed about whether he would consider a presidential bid, El Rufai’s answer was unambiguous: “I am not ready to make that decision yet, and I do not think 2027 is a realistic timeline for me.” He clarified that the next presidential election is more than a few years away and that he prefers to allow space for a more mature political environment before taking such a leap.

“The next election is still a long way off. I don’t want to create a scenario where I am forced into a decision that might destabilise the party or the country,” he told reporters, citing the APC’s need for internal cohesion and a solid base of support. He also mentioned that his “focus right now is on consolidating the work that I have done for the people of Kaduna and for Nigeria.”

Party Dynamics and the APC’s Future

The interview also touched on the state of the All‑Progressive Congress. El Rufai made it clear that the party’s internal politics play a major role in any potential presidential aspirant’s decision. “The APC is a living entity. It has to decide who can best represent the interests of all Nigerians, and it’s not a decision that can be taken lightly,” he said.

He added that, given the party’s current composition, any candidate who wishes to stand for the APC banner must have a clear “roadmap to win” and a “strong base of grassroots support.” The former governor stressed that this means more than mere political ambition; it requires a “deep understanding of the socio‑economic challenges that Nigeria faces.”

Beyond the Presidency: Other Paths

While El Rufai ruled out a presidential bid in the immediate future, he did not dismiss the possibility of other roles in national politics. He hinted that he might consider a seat in the Senate or even a leadership role within the APC—perhaps the party’s national chairmanship if he were deemed suitable. “I’m open to any position that helps the APC move forward,” he said.

He also made it clear that any future involvement would be “in line with my experience” and “focused on the welfare of Nigerians.” He cited his background in infrastructure and national security as assets that could be leveraged in various capacities, from parliamentary committees to party strategy.

The Take‑away: A Cautious, Yet Pragmatic Approach

El Rufai’s comments reflect a deliberate, long‑term strategy rather than a rash decision to chase a political spotlight. The former governor’s insistence that he is “not ready” for the 2027 election is a statement about timing, party unity, and a measured approach to public service. In a political landscape where ambition often overtakes prudence, his measured tone marks a notable shift.

As the next presidential election approaches, the APC and the rest of the country will be watching closely to see how El Rufai’s position evolves. His current stance—“no 2027, but open to other roles”—provides a roadmap for future speculation while leaving the door open for a variety of political possibilities.

Sources: The original interview was posted on El Rufai’s YouTube channel and later featured in a piece on Legit.ng. Further context was drawn from his official statements on the APC website and press releases from his former ministries.


Read the Full legit Article at:
[ https://www.legit.ng/politics/1671421-just-el-rufai-finally-speaks-what-2027/ ]