The Presidency has responded to comments made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai regarding President Bola Tinubu’s potential re-election in 2027. Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled those calling for Tinubu’s removal as “power-hungry politicians” feeling politically displaced.
El-Rufai suggested in a recent interview that Tinubu would not be re-elected, stating, “Bola Tinubu himself couldn’t win his state with his own governor in place.” He speculated that the 2027 elections might lead to a runoff, where Tinubu would not be a contender.
Onanuga countered these claims, highlighting that El-Rufai previously acknowledged that four years might not be enough for meaningful change. He criticized El-Rufai’s inconsistency, pointing out that those advocating for Tinubu’s ouster are acting out of desperation.
In his defense of Tinubu, Onanuga cited achievements such as increased foreign reserves, stock market growth, and successful reforms in education and social welfare. He argued that Tinubu’s administration has made significant progress over the past two years, positioning Nigeria on a path to prosperity.
Onanuga concluded by stating that El-Rufai’s past comments would be used against him in future political campaigns and expressed confidence that those attempting to undermine Tinubu’s presidency would not succeed.
