Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has openly declared his support for the possible 2027 presidential candidacy of Peter Obi, should the latter contest under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Bashir made this known in a response to a question posed by a user on X (formerly Twitter), who asked whether he would support Peter Obi if he emerged as the ADC’s presidential flag bearer.
Responding with strong affirmation, Bashir stated, “An emphatic yes. He may save us from these urban bandits in the Presidential Villa.” His use of the phrase “urban bandits” appeared to be a veiled criticism of the current administration occupying the nation’s highest office.
His statement is particularly notable given his family background and the prominent political stature of his father, Nasir El-Rufai, a key figure in Nigerian politics. Bashir’s endorsement may therefore carry symbolic weight and stir reactions across the political spectrum.
Further elaborating on his views, Bashir attributed Obi’s political strength to his vast support base, describing it as “cult-like.” He emphasized that Obi’s widespread appeal—especially among Nigeria’s youth—positions him as a significant force that could pose a serious challenge to the presidential aspirations of veteran politician and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.
“The sheer force of Obi’s numbers and cult-like followership brings a challenge,” Bashir noted. “His appeal across the youth and this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage.”
He went on to argue that Peter Obi’s popularity is not just widespread but deeply influential, suggesting that his momentum could tip the balance in the 2027 presidential race.
Bashir even humorously claimed that Obi could defeat the incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “before First Lady Remi Tinubu finishes her breakfast”—a bold metaphor used to emphasize the former Anambra governor’s strong electoral potential, especially if he selects a politically strategic running mate from Northern Nigeria.
Bashir El-Rufai’s unexpected show of support for Peter Obi not only signals shifting allegiances ahead of 2027, but also underscores the growing belief that new political dynamics—driven by youth engagement and alternative platforms—could redefine Nigeria’s future leadership.