Speculations are rife following a recent meeting between former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), suggesting a potential coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
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The meeting, which took place on Thursday, has drawn attention amidst a backdrop of several northern political figures converging at the Daura residence of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
This gathering has been interpreted by political observers as a move to consolidate political influence and mobilize support for the upcoming presidential election.
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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent visit to Buhari, accompanied by former governors Aminu Tambuwal and Jibrilla Bindow, was labeled as a Sallah homage.
Shortly after, El-Rufai paid a visit to the ex-president, followed by former Borno State governor Ali Modu Sheriff.
Senator Shehu Sani, a former Kaduna Central Senator, criticized these gatherings, cautioning against manipulating Arewa sentiment without considering the potential repercussions.
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Political analysts speculate that El-Rufai and Kwankwaso, both of whom have grievances against the current administration led by President Tinubu, may be strategizing to align behind a formidable presidential candidate for 2027.
Despite President Tinubu reportedly making efforts to woo Kwankwaso to the All Progressives Congress (APC), political tensions persist due to Kwankwaso’s strained relationship with APC national chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Allegations of broken promises, including an unfulfilled ministerial appointment after the 2023 elections, have further strained ties between Kwankwaso and Tinubu.
El-Rufai’s recent political activities have also fueled speculations about his intentions for 2027.
His meetings with various political figures, including leaders from different parties like the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and APC, have heightened anticipation about his future political moves.
Hashimu Dungurawa, NNPP chairman in Kano State and a close ally of Kwankwaso, described the recent meeting between El-Rufai and Kwankwaso as a reunion of progressive politicians with a common goal of rescuing Nigeria, particularly the Northwest region.
Regarding Kwankwaso’s ongoing probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged campaign fund irregularities, Dungurawa dismissed it as a distraction orchestrated by political opponents.
Efforts to obtain comments from El-Rufai’s media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, and Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, regarding the meeting’s agenda were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
