A top figure in the African Democratic Congress, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has said he will not run for president in the 2027 election. The former Kaduna State governor stated it is the South’s turn to produce the country’s leader.
He announced his decision publicly on Saturday. El-Rufai said he will instead plan to run for the presidency in the 2031 election.
“I refused to contest in 2027 because it is the turn of the South. You will see me in action come 2031,” El-Rufai said. His statement was shared by the ADC News social media account.
The declaration directly enters the debate on power rotation within his party. The ADC has said zoning is not a current priority, even as the national discussion grows.
El-Rufai’s move is significant as several major contenders have already emerged. They include northern politician Atiku Abubakar and southern figures Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi.
By ruling himself out, El-Rufai adds weight to calls for a southern candidate. His stance may influence the ADC’s internal negotiations and the wider political landscape.
The coming weeks will show if his position sways the party’s direction for the 2027 presidential race.
