Nigeria’s political landscape is abuzz with speculation following a cryptic remark by Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. Bashir’s comment has ignited discussions about the possibility of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a move that could significantly reshape the 2027 presidential race.
The speculation arose after Bashir responded to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by a user, @Freedom42602077, who suggested that the SDP’s chances of defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027 would be slim without Obi’s involvement.
“Bro to bro, if Peter Obi is not in that party, they can’t win the presidential. APC will have it again!” the user asserted.
In a short but intriguing response, Bashir simply replied: “He is coming.”
Bashir’s comment has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political circles, sparking debates on whether Obi is indeed considering a shift from Labour Party to SDP. The timing of this speculation is particularly significant, as it coincides with Nasir El-Rufai’s dramatic departure from the APC.
El-Rufai, a key architect of the APC’s rise to power in 2015, recently submitted his resignation letter to his ward leadership in Kaduna State. His exit marks a major blow to the ruling party, as he was instrumental in shaping its policies and election strategies over the years.
In a strongly worded statement dated Monday, March 10, 2025, El-Rufai lambasted the APC leadership, accusing them of betraying the party’s founding progressive ideals.
“Developments in the last two years confirm that there is no desire on the part of those who currently control and run the APC to acknowledge, much less address, the unhealthy situation of the party,” he stated.
He further expressed his frustration over the direction of the party, stating that his years of service and reformist agenda in Kaduna counted for little in the APC, which, according to him, has been hijacked by self-serving interests.
> “My eight-year tenure in Kaduna State was devoted to implementing progressive policies to advance human development. These records count for little in the current APC that has castrated its organs and treated its membership with contempt in the last two years. I find this no longer acceptable,” he added.
El-Rufai’s defection is reportedly just the tip of the iceberg, with multiple high-profile APC figures rumored to be in talks to join SDP. Among those speculated to be considering a move are:
Former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola
Former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami
Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi
Former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu
Several ministers from the Muhammadu Buhari administration
If these defections materialize, the SDP could emerge as a formidable force in 2027, challenging both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Peter Obi, who gained massive grassroots support in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party, has yet to respond to the swirling rumors. However, his name being linked to the SDP suggests that key political actors are eyeing him as a critical figure in the 2027 elections.
With increasing dissatisfaction among Nigerians over the APC-led government and internal tensions within the PDP, Obi’s next political move could be decisive. If he aligns with SDP—especially in a coalition with other defectors—Nigeria’s political dynamics could take an unexpected turn.
For now, the nation watches closely, as the pieces of the 2027 election puzzle continue to shift. Will Peter Obi make a shocking defection? Will SDP emerge as a third force against APC and PDP? One thing is certain—the road to 2027 just got a lot more intriguing.
PIONEER NEWS 