El-Rufai Gears Up for Legal and Political Battle Against Tinubu

Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, is gearing up to confront President Bola Tinubu on two fronts, as reported by Saturday Vanguard.

El-Rufai’s preparations indicate a forthcoming legal battle to clear his name of allegations labeled by the Tinubu administration, branding him as a security risk unfit for ministerial office. Additionally, he aims to challenge Tinubu in the court of public opinion, where political pundits anticipate him to be a significant obstacle to the president’s re-election bid in 2027.

The brewing confrontation stems from what both allies and adversaries of the former governor perceive as public humiliation by the Tinubu camp, portraying him as a security liability.

In recent weeks, El-Rufai, affectionately called ‘Mallam’ by his close associates, has intensified his political engagements across the Northern region, capturing public interest with his activities. Notably, he has aligned himself with the political opposition, including meetings with Social Democratic Party (SDP) leaders and a visit to suspended Senator Abdul Ningi from Bauchi Central Senatorial District.

Despite El-Rufai’s significant contributions to Tinubu’s rise to power, including strategic and financial support, he was reportedly sidelined from the new government under the pretext of failing security clearance during Senate ministerial screening.

The shockwave of this exclusion reverberated among political circles, given El-Rufai’s pivotal role in garnering Northern governors’ support for Tinubu and facilitating the president’s election in certain Southwest states not under APC control.

While El-Rufai had initially preferred a sabbatical in academia, he was persuaded by the president to assist in reviving the energy sector, leveraging his expertise from previous roles. However, his aspirations were dashed due to the alleged security clearance failure.

In response to the humiliation, sources close to El-Rufai suggest that he is determined to clear his name through legal action, leveraging his extensive international contacts and reputation.

Moreover, El-Rufai is mobilizing to sway public opinion against Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, although his candidacy or active involvement in opposing the president remains uncertain.

It is noteworthy that El-Rufai’s strategic assistance to Tinubu contrasts with past criticisms, where he publicly challenged Tinubu’s influence as a political godfather. Despite their differences, El-Rufai’s recent moves signal a shifting dynamic in his relationship with Tinubu and the broader political landscape.