Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has weighed in on Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, stating that opposition leader Atiku Abubakar remains a formidable contender ahead of the 2027 presidential elections but may face a stiff challenge from Peter Obi’s surging popularity.

In a post on X, Bashir described Atiku as “a force to be reckoned with”, suggesting that the former vice president believes “the stars have finally aligned in his favour” for another presidential run, despite perceptions that his best opportunity was in 2019.

However, Bashir noted that Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last election, presents a serious obstacle.

Citing Obi’s “cult-like followership” and broad appeal among Nigerian youth, he remarked that Obi’s influence “is one profound aspect of his leverage”.

He further predicted that if Obi were to run again with a “strong Northern candidate” as his running mate, he could decisively defeat President Bola Tinubu even before “Aunty Remi finishes his breakfast around noon,” a veiled jab referring to First Lady Remi Tinubu.

The post adds to growing political commentary surrounding the 2027 race, which has seen major coalitions involving Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), respectively, all migrating to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Meanwhile, his father, who is also a member of the coalition, was banned from the Social Democratic Party, SDP, for 30 years.

A statement by the party’s spokesman, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, warned members against associating with El-Rufai and those who don’t represent its interests.

“El-Rufai is hereby banished and banned from applying for membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, symbol, mark, or any activities, organs, agencies, and institutions of the SDP or donating to, supporting, contributing to, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for 30 years effective from today,” Aiyenigba said. (The Guardian)