Presidential aide Sunday Dare has dismissed former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s recent claim that the opposition will send President Bola Tinubu “back to Lagos” in 2027.
Speaking during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, Dare downplayed El-Rufai’s political influence and insisted that Tinubu will secure re-election based on his administration’s ongoing reforms.
“I have respect for him, but this idea to equate El-Rufai with Nigeria and millions of votes is an overreach,” Dare said.
Presidency Responds to El-Rufai’s Remarks, Downplays His Electoral InfluenceThe presidency has responded to recent comments made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who claimed the opposition would send President Bola Tinubu “back to Lagos” in the next general election.
In a rebuttal aired on the Mic On Podcast on Saturday, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Dare, dismissed the statement as exaggerated and overstated El-Rufai’s political influence.
“Is El-Rufai 110 million Nigerians who will vote? How many voters does he command? Even if he commands them, can he decide who they will cast their vote for?” Dare questioned.While acknowledging respect for the former governor, Dare cautioned against equating El-Rufai’s standing with the entire Nigerian electorate.
He emphasized that other politicians wield more significant political influence and play greater roles in the country’s transformation.“There are politicians who command larger votes, better influence, and are key to the transformation taking place in this country,” he said.
Dare also expressed strong confidence in President Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term, citing the administration’s reforms and policy initiatives as key factors.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be re-elected in 2027, primarily because of the policies and reforms he put in place,” he concluded.
