2027: Obi, Not Atiku, Can Defeat Tinubu – El-Rufai’s Son

L-R: Bashir El-Rufai, President Bola Tinubu

Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has said that Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has a stronger chance of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election than former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Bashir argued that Obi’s growing popularity, particularly among the youth, makes him a more formidable challenger to Tinubu if he chooses a strong running mate from Northern Nigeria.

“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 noon,” Bashir wrote, referring to President Tinubu with the nickname “Pablo”.

He acknowledged Atiku’s political relevance but said Obi’s movement has gained massive grassroots traction and a kind of “cult-like” youth following that could prove decisive in 2027.

“Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He also feels the stars have finally aligned in his favour,” he noted.

However, the sheer force of Obi’s numbers and cult-like followership brings a challenge. His appeal across the youth and this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage.”

Bashir’s remarks come amid increasing political realignments in preparation for the next presidential race.

His father, Nasir El-Rufai, was among several opposition leaders who unveiled a coalition platform under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on March 20 in Abuja, aimed at dislodging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

The coalition includes political heavyweights such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola.

While none of the key figures have formally declared their intention to run, the coalition has fueled speculation about the formation of a united opposition front to challenge Tinubu’s expected re-election bid.

Analysts believe that Obi’s increasing national visibility and appeal among disenchanted voters, especially in urban and youth demographics, could upset Nigeria’s traditional power blocs if backed by a strategic alliance.

Though President Tinubu has not officially announced his interest in seeking a second term, the APC has maintained that it remains the dominant political force, citing its hold on federal power and control in most states.

Still, with political tempers already rising more than two years ahead of the polls, Bashir El-Rufai’s comment has added fuel to the speculation that he’s rooting for Obi in order for his father to emerge as his running mate.

Speculation has been rife that El-Rufai as Obi’s running mate could defeat Tinubu, a match-up many Obidient members and supporters have equally supported.

Bashir El-Rufai added that, “although 2019 is thought to have been his best shot, this may be one of those ‘moment meets the man”, while referencing Atiku’s bid with Peter Obi as his running mate in 2019.

Source: TheWhistler | Read More