Former Kaduna Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, has emphasized the necessity for cross-political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling for a coalition between the North and South-South regions to “save” Nigeria, which he believes is in need of a rescue operation.
During a condolence visit to the family of late elder statesman and Niger Delta advocate Edwin Clark, el-Rufai remarked, “In the 60s, 70s, and 80s, the traditional political partners of the North were the South-South. Let us not forget that. We need to save this country because it really requires saving.”
His comments come amid speculation that el-Rufai is seeking to align himself with opposition parties following a fallout with the APC and President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He has been meeting with various political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to strategize for the upcoming elections.
Segun Showunmi, a former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s campaign, confirmed that the meeting aimed to develop strategies for the 2027 elections.
In recent weeks, el-Rufai has also met with other political figures, including Hamza Al-Mustapha and Shehu Gabam, indicating a shift in his political alliances as he seeks to navigate the changing landscape ahead of the elections.