The Presidency has dismissed claims by former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, suggesting that President Bola Tinubu intends to extend his stay in office beyond constitutional limits.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, described the speculation as baseless, unfounded, and a sign that the former governor had exhausted options in attempting to discredit the President.
Writing on his X handle, Onanuga said El-Rufai’s remarks came in the wake of the overwhelming reception Tinubu received in Kaduna last Friday, which contradicted narratives claiming dwindling support in the North.
“Former Governor El-Rufai appears to need some help, especially given his recent unfounded claims and speculations about President Tinubu,” Onanuga said.
He further stated that El-Rufai, who has recently aligned with a new political party, has realised the futility of efforts by his associates to prevent Tinubu’s likely re-election in 2027. “This plot is proving unattainable, a mission doomed to fail,” he added.
Contrary to El-Rufai’s “hallucinations”, Onanuga emphasised that President Tinubu remains committed to democratic principles and will not exceed his constitutionally mandated tenure, which ends on May 28, 2031, if re-elected.
The presidential aide also urged Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, to reach out to his predecessor, suggesting that El-Rufai could benefit from “professional counselling” to avoid further political fabrications.
Onanuga added that the Kaduna rally clearly demonstrated that President Tinubu still enjoys wide support in the North, dismissing any notion of declining popularity.
