Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has declared that he will not contest for any political office in the 2027 general elections, insisting that his renewed political involvement is solely to support credible leadership across the country.
Speaking in Kaduna during a reception for new decampees from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by Aliyu Bello, El-Rufai said his initial plan after leaving office in 2023 was to retire from partisan politics. However, he noted that recent national developments compelled him to return — not for personal ambition, but to contribute to efforts aimed at changing Nigeria’s political direction.
“This government 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. That’s why I am calling on you, let us join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors,” El-Rufai stated.
He stressed that his current focus is on mentoring young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians to take greater ownership of the political process.
The former governor also urged Kaduna youths to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise. “In Lagos and Osun, at least 600,000 people registered. But in Kaduna, only 60,000. Anyone who is 18 years old should go and register, even with their phone. Registration is what gives you the right to choose who governs you,” he said.
El-Rufai maintained that his return to politics is driven by the need to build a movement that can foster better governance and accountable leadership at all levels.
