The Presidency on Monday dismissed recent comments credited to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu harbors intentions of remaining in power indefinitely.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, the Presidency described El-Rufai’s remarks as “false, alarmist, and capable of misleading Nigerians.”
“President Tinubu was elected through a democratic process, and his mandate has a clear constitutional timeline. Any insinuation that he plans to remain in office as a life president is baseless and mischievous,” the statement read.
The Presidency further emphasized that Tinubu remains committed to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values, strengthening its institutions, and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power at the end of his constitutionally allowed tenure.
According to the statement, “What Nigeria needs at this time is unity, stability, and collective effort to overcome economic and security challenges, not unfounded speculations that seek to sow distrust between the government and the people.”
While not mentioning El-Rufai by name, the Presidency cautioned political leaders and stakeholders against making comments that could heat up the polity, especially as the country prepares for the 2027 elections.
It reiterated that Tinubu’s focus remains on delivering his “Renewed Hope Agenda” and implementing reforms designed to revamp the economy, attract investment, and address insecurity.
Observers note that the exchange underscores growing political tensions among ruling party figures, with El-Rufai increasingly voicing criticisms of Tinubu’s style of governance since leaving office in 2023.
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