Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai has expressed skepticism over the likelihood of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) approving any new political party registration under its current leadership, warning that the process may be politically manipulated ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, el-Rufai revealed that he and other prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, are supporting the formation of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Many of us do not believe that under the current leadership of INEC, a new party would be registered,” he said. “Mahmood Yakubu is not Jega, and President Tinubu is not Jonathan — those were the people in charge when APC was registered.”

While supporting the ADA’s registration efforts, el-Rufai said he personally believes that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) would serve as a stronger, unifying opposition platform due to its history and legacy.

“I strongly believe that SDP is the best platform for the coalition. It has a history, a legacy, and sentimental value,” he explained.

El-Rufai also launched a blistering critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing a 91% public disapproval rating and describing it as “the worst in history.”

“Nigerians are looking for a credible option. They want unity and selflessness among political actors to end what they see as a failed government,” he said.

“I have no personal ambition. I feel obligated to correct my error in supporting Tinubu’s emergence by now helping to remove what I see as an existential threat to Nigeria.”

El-Rufai also opened up about his strained relationship with President Tinubu, stating,

“Bola Tinubu never really liked me. We never really got along. In the party, I was Buhari’s boy.”

He emphasized that his closest connection within the APC was with Bisi Akande, the party’s former interim national chairman.

His remarks underscore the growing mistrust among opposition leaders toward INEC’s neutrality and reflect deepening political realignments as Nigeria inches closer to another critical electoral season.