Ex-Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has announced that he will not contest for any elective political office in the 2027 general elections, stating that his renewed involvement in politics is solely to support credible leadership at both the state and national levels.

El-Rufai made this known in Kaduna while receiving a group of youths who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under the leadership of Aliyu Bello.

While taking a swipe at the current government of President Bola Tinubu, the former governor said Nigerians do not need further explanation to recognise its shortcomings.

“This is a government that does nothing but lie every day. Everyone’s conscience tells them the truth. I am not contesting for anything; I don’t want to go to the Senate. I am not contesting for any position. That is why I am calling on you: let us join hands and ensure we remove the oppressors,” he said.

He explained further that his initial plan after leaving office was to step back from partisan politics.

However, he said that recent developments compelled him to return — not driven by personal ambition, but to serve a supportive role.

“When I finished my tenure as governor of Kaduna, I intended to rest. But given the way things have turned out, I believe we must play our part to bring about better leadership. That is why we are back in politics,” he insisted.

El-Rufai stressed that his focus is now on mentoring and supporting young people, women, and reform-minded Nigerians to take ownership of the political process.

He also urged youths to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise.

“In Lagos and Osun, at least 600,000 people registered. But in Kaduna, only 60,000. Anyone who is 18 years old should go and register, even with your phone. Registration is what gives you the right to choose who governs you,” he advised.

He cautioned citizens against complacency and urged them to remain vigilant in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

Meanwhile, in his remarks, Aliyu Bello, who led the PDP youth defectors to the ADC, said his priority has always been to empower young people and discourage political thuggery in politics.