Nasir El-Rufai’s recent visits to former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos have sparked significant speculation about his political future, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. The visits, which were accompanied by viral photographs, come at a time when El-Rufai has been increasingly critical of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu. His visit to Aregbesola, who recently left the APC, and Bakare, who was a contender for the APC presidential ticket, suggests that El-Rufai is possibly exploring new alliances.
El-Rufai has been publicly vocal about his displeasure with Tinubu’s leadership, notably accusing the president of blocking his ministerial appointment during the National Assembly’s screening. These visits, combined with El-Rufai’s earlier interview in which he hinted at leaving the APC, fuel rumors that he may be considering a shift in allegiance or preparing for a different political role in the coming years.
The political dynamics surrounding his visits are intensified by his previous interactions with opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 PDP presidential candidate. This, along with his critiques of both the APC and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, suggests that El-Rufai may be positioning himself for a significant political maneuver, potentially as a key figure in the 2027 election.
However, his recent visits are being downplayed by members of the APC, who have emphasized that El-Rufai is free to associate with anyone. APC officials, including Nze Chidi Duru and Senator Ajibola Basiru, have shrugged off concerns about the visits, framing them as personal meetings rather than strategic political moves.
In any case, El-Rufai’s actions are undoubtedly being closely watched, and while his visits may appear to be casual, the underlying political implications are hard to ignore as the 2027 election approaches. His next moves will likely be crucial in determining whether he remains a significant force within the APC or if he will pivot to another political path.
