In a headline-grabbing departure from political expectations, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai announced on Wednesday that he will not contest any elective office, including a Senate seat, in the 2027 general elections.
His declaration came as he officially welcomed defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that added fresh fuel to Nigeria’s political landscape.
El-Rufai, who had signalled a desire to rest after completing his tenure in 2023, said: “When I finished my tenure as governor, I intended to 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.” However, he clarified firmly, “I am not contesting for anything. I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not seeking any position.”
Instead, he framed his return to politics as a finishing school for future leaders. His current focus, he emphasized, lies in mentoring young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians, urging citizens — especially youths — to participate in the upcoming voter registration exercise as a pathway to lasting change across the nation.
