Mahdi Shehu Slams El-Rufai, Says Former Kaduna Governor Has Lost Political Relevance

Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu has criticised former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing him as overrated, over-pampered and politically irrelevant ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Shehu made the remarks during an interview on Symfoni TV, where he dismissed El-Rufai’s appointment as Deputy Director-General of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a cosmetic move designed to attract media attention rather than strengthen the party.

According to the commentator, El-Rufai no longer has the political influence required to determine electoral outcomes, regardless of the position he occupies within the ADC.

“El-Rufai has been overrated and over-pampered. His appointment as deputy DG is just cosmetics. He can’t influence the 2027 elections. People have been deeply assaulted by El-Rufai’s inhuman economic policies,” Shehu said.

He also recalled what he described as the hardship experienced by residents of Kaduna State during El-Rufai’s administration, citing mass demolitions, the dismissal of civil servants and teachers, and high taxes.

Shehu argued that Nigerians, particularly residents of Kaduna State, have not forgotten the consequences of those policies and would be unwilling to support El-Rufai’s political ambitions ahead of the next general elections.

He further claimed that the former governor lacks the electoral strength to deliver Kaduna State to the ADC, let alone influence the outcome of the presidential election.

His comments come amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures positioning themselves within political parties and alliances.