Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has weighed in on Nigeria’s shifting political scene.
He believes Atiku Abubakar remains a major force ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
However, he also warns that Peter Obi may be the one to watch.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Bashir described Atiku as “a force to be reckoned with.”
He said the former vice president believes “the stars have finally aligned” for his presidential bid.
Atiku, a seasoned political figure, has contested multiple elections, with many believing 2019 was his best shot.
Still, Bashir thinks Peter Obi may be the bigger threat in 2027.
He called Obi’s influence “profound,” pointing to his strong support base among Nigerian youth.
He also noted that Obi enjoys “cult-like followership” across different regions.
Bashir predicted that if Obi pairs with a strong northern running mate, he could beat President Bola Tinubu outright.
In a jab aimed at First Lady Remi Tinubu, he joked Obi might win “before Aunty Remi finishes his breakfast around noon.”
This latest post adds fuel to ongoing debates about Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
Many believe the next presidential race will be shaped by new coalitions and rising public dissatisfaction.
Recently, major figures from the PDP and Labour Party, including Atiku and Obi, have shifted toward the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Political observers say this move could reshape the opposition’s chances in 2027.
Meanwhile, Bashir’s father, Nasir El-Rufai, has faced backlash in the political arena. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has banned him for 30 years.
The party’s spokesman, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, released a statement warning members to avoid associating with El-Rufai.
“El-Rufai is hereby banned from identifying with the SDP in any way,” Aiyenigba declared.
The ban includes using its name, logo, or symbols and participating in party activities or donations.
The SDP claims El-Rufai no longer reflects its values and ideology. The ban is effective immediately.