APC, PDP Clash as El-Rufai Rallies Opposition Against Tinubu

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clashed on Sunday as former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, intensified efforts to rally northern leaders against President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, accused El-Rufai of fueling ethnic tensions due to his failure to secure a cabinet appointment.

El-Rufai, once a close ally of Tinubu, saw their relationship deteriorate after the National Assembly rejected his ministerial nomination on security grounds. Recently, he has been engaging with northern political leaders and opposition figures, including PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. His presence in Atiku’s entourage during a condolence visit to Niger Delta elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, and subsequent praise for Atiku’s role in economic reforms have sparked speculation about his political realignment.

Following the condolence visit, El-Rufai and Atiku observed Juma’at prayers together. The next day, El-Rufai met with the Kaduna State PDP executive committee, accompanied by his former Chief of Staff, Bashir Saidu. This closed-door meeting heightened speculation about bipartisan cooperation ahead of 2027. On Sunday, he visited former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu, in Keffi, Nasarawa State, further fueling rumors of political maneuvering.

El-Rufai has also been vocal in his criticism of the APC, accusing it of lacking internal democracy. He recently shared an opinion warning that Tinubu’s deteriorating relationship with the North could cost him re-election, similar to the fate of former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.

In response, APC’s Basiru dismissed El-Rufai’s actions, labeling him an “overrated ethnic champion” and criticizing his attempt to position himself as the North’s spokesperson. He argued that El-Rufai’s moves were motivated by personal grievances rather than national interest, stating that governance is not anyone’s birthright and that the APC remains strong and committed to its Renewed Hope Agenda.

Meanwhile, the PDP expressed openness to working with El-Rufai and others to “rescue Nigeria” from the APC. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, noted that El-Rufai, having experienced both parties, now understands which truly upholds democracy and the rule of law. He emphasized that the PDP is a party of principles, welcoming those who align with its constitution and vision for Nigeria.