Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that he declined overtures to endorse former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai as his successor, citing concerns over maturity and readiness to lead at the national level. The revelation was published in a recent interview with national media. Â
Obasanjo said supporting El-Rufai in the past would have contravened his principles of leadership stability and institutional legitimacy. He expressed belief that El-Rufai needed more seasoning in governance before assuming presidential responsibilities. He added that leadership decisions should be shaped by capacity, temperament and public trust rather than expediency or party machinations.
Observers believe Obasanjo’s comments are timely, amid speculation about political alignments heading into the 2027 general elections. Some analysts see the disclosure as an indirect commentary on current leadership choices and the qualities needed to steer Nigeria forward.
