Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has dismissed speculation that his recent political activities are part of a broader consultation for a potential 2027 presidential bid.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time, El-Rufai clarified that, while he meets the constitutional requirements to contest for Nigeria’s highest office, he has not initiated discussions or consultations regarding any candidacy.
“Anyone above the age of 35 with a secondary school certificate is qualified to run for president, so in that sense, I am qualified. But have I started talking to anybody about running for any office? No,” he stated.
His remarks come amid growing speculation that his engagements with key political figures across party lines could be an indication of his interest in the 2027 presidential race. However, he insists that no such discussions have begun.
Snubs APC NEC Meeting Over Short Notice
In a separate development, El-Rufai confirmed that he would not be attending the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled to take place on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa.
Citing short notice and scheduling conflicts, he also raised concerns about whether the meeting adhered to the party’s constitutional requirements.
“The constitution of our party requires 21 days’ notice for this kind of national meeting. I don’t think that notice has been given. If it has, I have not received an invitation two to three weeks ago,” he stated.
El-Rufai’s decision to boycott the APC NEC meeting has further fueled political discussions about his current stance within the party and his future political ambitions.
