El-Rufai: I See Him Moving From ADC To Another Party If He Can Not Get The Presidential Ticket—Datti

The Nigerian political landscape has once again become a focal point of intense discussion and speculation regarding the future trajectory of prominent figures, according to a report by TVC News on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Central to this discourse is Nasir El-Rufai, whose recent political manoeuvres have generated significant analysis from pundits, political observers, and the public alike.

As Nigeria inches closer to the next general election cycle, the movements of high-profile politicians are being closely scrutinized for what they reveal about underlying shifts in power, party loyalty, and strategy across the federation. In this context, political analyst Yakubu Datti has shared his perspective on El-Rufai’s apparent political calculations, offering insight into the former governor’s strategic approach.

Speaking during a recent interview, Datti said, “I see him moving again from ADC to another party if he doesn’t get the presidential ticket, which is part of his plan.”

Datti’s observation reflects a growing consensus among political watchers that El-Rufai’s recent activities are part of a carefully considered strategy aimed at navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s multi-party political system. While the choice of a political platform may appear significant on the surface, analysts like Datti suggest that for El-Rufai, the ultimate objective is to secure a viable path to the nation’s highest office.

“This is not just about party loyalty; it is about political survival and positioning. El-Rufai is clearly aware that the path to the presidency requires flexibility, negotiation, and strategic alignment,” Datti added during the interview.

El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, remains an influential figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has built a strong political network both regionally and nationally. However, his recent association with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has drawn attention, fueling speculation about whether he is positioning himself for a presidential bid or testing alternative avenues should the primary path within his current party prove unviable.

Political analysts note that in Nigeria’s competitive political environment, high-profile politicians often evaluate multiple scenarios to maximize their chances of success. According to Datti, El-Rufai’s willingness to switch platforms is consistent with a broader pattern of strategic maneuvering that prioritizes the pursuit of power over strict party allegiance.

“Many politicians would rather ensure they have a route to the presidency than remain confined to a party that may not support their ambitions fully. El-Rufai’s moves reflect this political reality,” Datti said… Discover More