Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) should not assume it will remain in power indefinitely, warning that the party could lose control at the federal level in the 2027 general elections if critical issues are not addressed.
El-Rufai made the remarks while speaking on national politics and the future of democratic governance, stressing that no political party has a guaranteed or permanent claim to power in a democratic system. According to him, electoral victory is earned through performance, internal discipline, and the ability to respond effectively to the needs and expectations of the electorate.
He noted that growing public dissatisfaction, internal divisions, and governance challenges could weaken the APC’s standing ahead of 2027 if left unchecked. El-Rufai emphasized that citizens ultimately determine who governs them, and when people feel disconnected from leadership or burdened by economic hardship, they are more likely to demand change through the ballot.
The former governor also cautioned party leaders against complacency, arguing that past electoral success should not be mistaken for future certainty. He urged the APC to engage in honest self-assessment, strengthen internal democracy, and prioritize policies that deliver tangible benefits to ordinary Nigerians.
El-Rufai further observed that opposition parties could capitalize on any failures by the ruling party if they present credible alternatives and unite around clear visions for governance. He stressed that democracy thrives on competition and accountability, and ruling parties must continuously justify their mandate.
His comments have sparked political debate, with supporters viewing them as a realistic assessment of Nigeria’s political landscape, while critics interpret them as a sign of internal tension within the APC. As the 2027 elections draw closer, El-Rufai’s remarks underscore the uncertainty and high stakes shaping the country’s political future.