Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has drawn attention to a strong warning issued by an APC member and political commentator Uche Diala, who cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s supporters, particularly those from the South West, noting that, they risk jeopardizing the party’s chances in 2027.
Diala’s statement, shared on social media and amplified by El-Rufai, warned that growing friction between Tinubu’s administration and the North could have serious political consequences.
He likened the situation to the mistakes that led to the downfall of former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.
“It is actually premature to be talking about 2027 elections less than two years into our first tenure, but what is happening in the political arena is forcing me to speak to it, for as they say, ‘a stitch in time saves nine,’” Diala wrote.
He emphasized the North’s crucial role in determining electoral outcomes and criticized what he described as the arrogance of some Tinubu loyalists.
“Less than two years into the tenure, we are witnesses to how the relationship between the North and President Bola Tinubu or rather his administration is quickly deteriorating, driven by the words and conduct of unfortunately, many from the President’s geopolitical zone and tribe. Truth be told.”
Drawing from historical precedent, Diala argued that Jonathan’s 2015 loss was not just about governance failures but also about alienating the North.
“In the lead-up to the 2015 Presidential election, inspite of the popularity of General Muhammadu Buhari Rtd and the gathering of political heavyweights under the umbrella of the then newly formed APC, one key factor that led to former President Jonathan and the PDP losing that election was underestimating the North and the disrespect and insult directed towards the North.”
El-Rufai’s amplification of this warning has intensified political discussions, with analysts interpreting it as a subtle but significant message about APC’s future strategy. Diala concluded his remarks by urging APC to focus on governance rather than divisive rhetoric.
“With almost exactly two years to the month to the 2027 general elections, let’s focus and continue to deliver the promised dividends of democracy to Nigerians.”
El-Rufai’s decision to highlight the statement has raised speculation about internal concerns within the party as the 2027 elections draw closer.
