El-Rufai Mocks Tinubu as ‘Pablo,’ Backs Peter Obi as Only Candidate Who Can Defeat Him in 2027

Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has taken a swipe at President Bola Tinubu, mockingly referring to him as “Pablo,” while declaring that only Peter Obi stands a real chance of defeating him in 2027.

Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has said that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, stands a strong chance of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections if he runs with a formidable running mate from the North.

El-Rufai made the statement on Thursday, July 31, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

He wrote:

“Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He feels the stars have finally aligned in his favour. And although 2019 is thought to have been his best shot, this may be one of those ‘moment meets the man’.

“However, the sheer force of Obi’s numbers and cult-like following brings a challenge. His appeal across the youth and this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage. Obi, as a flag bearer with a strong Northern candidate, would defeat Pablo (Tinubu) on election day before our dear mother of the nation — Aunty Remi — finishes his breakfast around noon.”

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The comment comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. On March 20, a coalition of opposition heavyweights—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai—emerged in Abuja under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) banner.

The younger El-Rufai emphasized Obi’s growing influence, particularly among Nigerian youth, noting that it poses a significant challenge to Abubakar, who is also eyeing a return to the presidential race.

Political observers believe Atiku Abubakar could clinch the ADC presidential ticket after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Meanwhile, Obi remains in the Labour Party, and Nasir El-Rufai has exited the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), which controversially banned him for 30 years over anti-party activities.

Despite the opposition alliance, there are lingering fears in Obi’s camp that he might not secure the ADC ticket if he chooses to leave the Labour Party.