Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, has said Peter Obi as a presidential flagbearer "with a strong northern candidate" would defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.

In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page, El-Rufai acknowledged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Obi's political strengths.

He tweeted: "Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He also feels the stars have finally aligned in his favour.

And although 2019 is thought to had 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 follower-ship brings a challenge. His appeal across the youth and this younger generation is one profound aspect of his leverage.

"Obi as a flagbearer with a strong Northern candidate would defeat Pablo (referring to President Bola Tinubu) on Election Day before our dear mother of the Nation — Aunty Remi finishes his breakfast around 12 noon."

Legit.ng had reported in March how Bashir made a u-turn on Obi.

Bashir admitted that his previous negative views about Obi were influenced by members of his former party, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

His comments come amid political realignments, as his father, Nasir, resigned from the APC and joined the opposition coalition.

Atiku is a force to be reckoned with. He also feels the stars have finally aligned in his favor. And although 2019 is thought to had 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 follower-ship brings a…

— Bashir El-Rufai (@BashirElRufai) July 31, 2025