Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has openly praised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic policies during the Obasanjo administration (1999–2007), sparking speculation about a potential political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
El-Rufai made these remarks while paying a condolence visit to the family of the late Pan Niger Delta Forum leader, Chief Edwin Clark.
He highlighted Atiku’s significant role in shaping economic policies, stating, “Nobody gives Alhaji Atiku Abubakar the credit for economic policy-making… many of the things we did, we did it under his leadership… but people focus on the negatives.”
The former governor was also seen earlier in the day with Atiku at a mosque in Abuja, further fueling discussions about a possible political alignment.
El-Rufai’s commendation comes amid his growing criticism of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Recently, he warned that Tinubu’s relationship with the North was weakening, drawing parallels to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s unsuccessful bid for re-election.
His comments were in response to APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who had urged northern politicians with presidential ambitions to shelve their plans, insisting that Tinubu would complete his two terms in office.
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