posted 22nd May 2025
El-Rufai Reveals Coalition to Oust Tinubu at Arewa TechFest
Katsina, Nigeria – Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has disclosed the formation of a political coalition aimed at preventing President Bola Tinubu from securing a second term in office. Speaking at the Arewa TechFest in Katsina on Wednesday, El-Rufai revealed that a significant meeting took place the previous evening to strategise on ensuring Tinubu "goes back to Lagos" after his current term.
The statement, made during a panel discussion at the technology-focused event, has sparked widespread speculation about the coalition’s composition and objectives. El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, hinted at a targeted approach to the coalition’s plans, suggesting that not all members of Tinubu’s administration would face opposition.
“We had a very important meeting of the coalition we’re putting together to ensure that President Tinubu goes back to Lagos,” El-Rufai said. “Though we will still keep Bosun Tijani, we will still keep the minister because he is doing good work.”
The mention of Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, indicates that the coalition may support certain ministers perceived as effective, even as it seeks to challenge Tinubu’s leadership. Tijani, who has been lauded for his efforts to advance Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, appears to have earned El-Rufai’s approval.
The remarks come at a time of heightened political activity in Nigeria, with factions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition groups already positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. El-Rufai’s comments suggest a calculated effort to consolidate influence in northern Nigeria, a key electoral battleground.
Analysts have described the statement as a bold move, potentially signalling El-Rufai’s intention to play a central role in shaping Nigeria’s political future. However, the lack of detail about the coalition’s members and strategies has left observers questioning its viability and reach.
Neither President Tinubu’s office nor Tijani’s ministry has issued an official response to El-Rufai’s comments at the time of reporting. The Arewa TechFest, which focuses on fostering technological innovation in northern Nigeria, has inadvertently become the backdrop for this significant political revelation.
As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, El-Rufai’s coalition is likely to face scrutiny and counter-manoeuvres from Tinubu’s supporters. For now, the former governor’s remarks have set the stage for what promises to be a contentious political battle in the years ahead.
