By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has stated that he has no interest in contesting the 2027 presidential election, declaring instead that his priority is to help reverse the damage he believes the current administration has inflicted on Nigeria.
In an interview with Arise News, El-Rufai described President Bola Tinubu’s leadership as both “evil” and a “tragedy,” admitting he played a role in its rise and now feels compelled to be part of its end.
“I have no ambition,” he said. “I just feel that having contributed to bringing about this tragedy to Nigeria by supporting Tinubu’s emergence as president, I should now contribute in this final phase of my public life to removing what I believe is a danger to the country.”
El-Rufai claimed recent internal polls show a 91% nationwide disapproval of the Tinubu administration, which he said reflects growing public dissatisfaction and a hunger for genuine political alternatives.
“Nigerians are tired,” he said. “They are searching for a credible option. What matters now is unity—people putting aside ego and ambition to offer a serious, united front against a failed government.”
Asked whether he could work alongside major political figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, El-Rufai responded that personal ambition is irrelevant to the task at hand.
“You mentioned my name. I repeat—I have no political ambition. I’m 65. I should be retiring. But I want to help correct the harm I helped bring upon Nigeria before stepping away completely.”
El-Rufai said he would support whichever political platform Nigerians unite behind to challenge and replace the current leadership in 2027.
