Political analyst Majeed Dahiru has stated that if former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai can mobilize northern political influencers to support Labour Party’s Peter Obi in the 2027 elections, it could lead to the end of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Dahiru made this assertion during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Friday, where he discussed the potential impact of El-Rufai’s influence on the upcoming election. He emphasized that El-Rufai’s ability to galvanize support among northern opinion leaders for Obi could significantly alter the political landscape.
“If El-Rufai decides and can galvanize the opinion moulders in the North to zero in on Peter Obi, that will be the end of the Tinubu administration,” Dahiru remarked.
This statement highlights the critical role that regional support plays in Nigeria’s presidential elections, where the backing of influential figures can sway public opinion and electoral outcomes.
Dahiru also addressed the recent defections within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He suggested that the PDP’s reluctance to form alliances stems from southern regional interests, as many PDP governors are from the South and prefer to support a southern candidate.
Regarding El-Rufai’s recent defection from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dahiru described the former governor’s rift with Tinubu as both ideological and personal. He noted that El-Rufai has been working to undermine the president, particularly in the Muslim North, where he holds significant influence.
Dahiru further suggested that if El-Rufai chooses to back a southern candidate, particularly one from the South-East, it could shift the political tide in favour of the opposition. He believes that El-Rufai has the capacity to convince the northern electorate to support Obi, which could end the Tinubu administration’s tenure.
El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP and his calls for opposition unity signal a significant shift in Nigeria’s political dynamics as the 2027 elections approach. His influence in the northern region and his efforts to unite opposition leaders could play a pivotal role in challenging the current administration’s hold on power.
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on the developments within the opposition parties and the strategies employed to garner support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
