Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has described the growing influence of Peter Obi as a significant challenge to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Bashir noted that although Atiku remains a formidable political figure, Obi’s mass appeal—particularly among Nigerian youths—could complicate his path to victory.
“Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He also feels the stars have finally aligned in his favor. And although 2019 is thought to have been his best shot, this may be one of those ‘moment meets the man’ situations,” Bashir wrote.
However, he warned that Peter Obi’s cult-like followership and strong numerical support—especially from the youth—could tilt the scale against Atiku in the coming election.
According to him, “The sheer force of Obi’s numbers and cult-like followership brings a challenge. His appeal across the youth and this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage.”
Bashir also weighed in on potential political alliances, suggesting that if Obi emerges as the presidential flag bearer with a strong northern running mate, he could secure a decisive win.
“Obi as a flag bearer with a strong Northern candidate would defeat Pablo [a nickname for Tinubu] on Election Day—before our dear mother of the Nation, Aunty Remi, finishes her breakfast around 12 noon,” he added humorously.
Peter Obi, who ran as the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, garnered widespread support among young voters and urban dwellers. His growing political base and grassroots momentum continue to generate national attention, particularly as Nigeria’s political landscape gradually shifts ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in both 2019 and 2023, has hinted at a possible sixth run for the presidency, maintaining that his ambition remains intact if the party zones the ticket to the North.
As the race toward 2027 begins to take shape, political observers are closely monitoring potential coalitions and strategic moves that could redefine the balance of power across the country
Comments