Nigeria: 2027 - 'I'm Not Contesting for Any Position' - - El-Rufai

28 August 2025

Former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai has declared that he will not contest any political office in the 2027 general elections, insisting that his return to politics solely supports credible leadership across the country.

El-Rufai made this known in Kaduna during the reception of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by Aliyu Bello.

He explained that his original plan after leaving office in 2023 was to step away from partisan politics.

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Still, he noted that recent developments in governance compelled him to re-engage -- not for personal ambition but to play a supportive role.

"This government does nothing but lie every day. I am not contesting for anything. I don't want to go to the Senate. I am not contesting for any position," El-Rufai said.

"That's why I am calling on you, let us join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors."

The former governor stressed that his focus is now on mentoring young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians to take active roles in the political process.

He urged Kaduna residents, particularly youths, to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise.

"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 their phone. Registration is what gives you the right to choose who governs you," he added.

El-Rufai, who took a swipe at the present administration over what he described as its failings, said his renewed involvement in politics was driven by a commitment to push for better leadership in Nigeria.

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