Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has ruled out the possibility of a political merger and urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and others to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

This follows El-Rufai’s resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) on 10 March, citing ideological differences with the ruling party.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai appealed to opposition figures to join the SDP to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

RELATED STORY: El-Rufai Quits APC Over Leadership Failures, Joins SDP

Meanwhile, the Presidency has stated that President Tinubu is currently focused on economic recovery rather than electoral concerns. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga noted that Tinubu’s priority is improving Nigerians’ welfare through policy reforms, which have already led to increased foreign reserves, reduced inflation, and a stronger trade surplus.

“We have attracted over $50 billion in investment, exports are rising, and imports are declining. President Tinubu is not worried about the next election but about shared prosperity for Nigerians,” Onanuga said.

The debate over 2027’s political landscape continues as opposition figures weigh their options.