THIS DAWN — A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has declared that he will not contest Nigeria’s presidency in 2027, citing his belief that it is the South’s turn to produce the country’s next leader.
El-Rufai, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, made the position public through remarks shared by ADC News on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
According to the post, El-Rufai said he deliberately opted out of the 2027 race in deference to the principle of power rotation.
“I refused to contest in 2027 because it is the turn of the South.
“You will see me in action come 2031,” he was quoted as saying.
The post, published at exactly 2:54 p.m., attracted significant attention online, recording over 57,000 views within hours.
ADC News praised El-Rufai’s stance, describing it as evidence of political consistency and respect for agreements.
Zoning debate
El-Rufai’s declaration comes amid growing internal and public debate over zoning within the ADC as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually intensify.
The party has acknowledged discussions around power rotation.
Meanwhile, ADC leaders have repeatedly stated that zoning is not currently a priority and that broader consultations are ongoing.
Political analysts note that El-Rufai’s decision is likely to influence the internal dynamics of the party.
This is especially so as several high-profile figures are already being mentioned as potential presidential contenders.
So far, three prominent politicians have emerged as widely discussed aspirants within the ADC’s broader opposition coalition.
They include:
- former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who hails from the North;
- former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; and,
- former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, both from the South.
El-Rufai’s endorsement a welcome development
El-Rufai’s endorsement of a southern presidency in 2027 aligns with arguments advanced by proponents of rotational leadership.
They contend that respecting regional balance is essential for national cohesion.
Others, however, argue that competence and vision should outweigh zoning considerations.
By publicly shifting his presidential ambition to 2031, El-Rufai positions himself as a long-term contender.
He, however, reinforced calls within sections of the political class for a southern candidate in the next election cycle.
How his stance will shape alliances within the ADC and the wider opposition landscape remains to be seen as the 2027 contest approaches.
