El-Rufai Rules Out Senate Ambition, Says He Won’t Contest Any Position
By IDNN Politics Desk
El-Rufai Shuts Down Speculation
KADUNA — Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has dismissed speculation about his ambition for the 2027 elections, declaring he will not contest for any political office.
“This is a government that does nothing but lie every day. I am not contesting for anything; I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not contesting for any position,” El-Rufai said while receiving a group of defectors in Kaduna on Wednesday.
Return Without Personal Ambition
El-Rufai said his initial plan after leaving office was to retire from partisan politics. However, he explained that recent developments compelled him to return, not for personal gain but to support reform-minded leadership.
“When I finished my tenure as governor of Kaduna, my intention was to step back and rest. But given the way things have turned out, I believe we must play our part to bring about better leadership. That is why we are back in politics,” he added.
Youths Urged to Take Ownership
The former governor stressed that his new role is to mentor and support young Nigerians, women, and reform-driven politicians. He urged youths to register and participate fully in the electoral process, saying they must take ownership of the country’s political future.
Aliyu Bello, who led defecting PDP youths to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), praised El-Rufai’s stance, saying his mission has always been to empower young people rather than encourage thuggery.
Opposition Against Government Failures
El-Rufai accused the current government of repeated falsehoods, saying Nigerians can already see its failures. “Everyone’s conscience tells them the truth. That is why we must join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors,” he declared.
Political observers say his position may strengthen opposition alliances in the run-up to 2027, even as El-Rufai insists he will not seek elective office.
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