Controversy Erupts Over Claim Tinubu Will Hand Over Presidency To El-Rufai

A key ally of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hayatudeen Lawal Makarfi, has revealed that the former governor is gearing up for a presidential bid in 2027.

Makarfi made the statement on Tuesday while speaking to journalists after a court session involving El-Rufai.

Commenting on his political prospects, he expressed optimism that El-Rufai would take over leadership from President Bola Tinubu after the next general elections.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will hand over to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai in May 2027, and the journey has already begun,” he said.

Court Grants El-Rufai Bail

Meanwhile, a Federal High Court in Kaduna on Tuesday granted El-Rufai bail in a corruption case brought against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

However, the court directed that he remain in ICPC custody until he meets all the bail conditions.

In his ruling, Justice Rilwanu Aikawa granted bail in the sum of ₦200 million, with two sureties required to provide the same amount.

The judge described the bail terms as strict and comprehensive.

The court further ordered that both sureties must deposit their international passports, with one required to be a civil servant not below Grade Level 15, and the other a recognised traditional ruler.