El-Rufai Joins Atiku’s 2027 Campaign Council While in Custody
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has been appointed Deputy Chairman of Atiku Abubakar’s 2027 presidential campaign council, despite remaining in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, approved the composition of his National Campaign Council and Presidential Campaign Management Committee as preparations for the 2027 election continue.
Kashim Ibrahim-Imam was named Chairman of the campaign council, with El-Rufai serving as Deputy Chairman. Senator Austin Akobundu was appointed Director-General and Campaign Manager.
According to the campaign announcement, El-Rufai will be responsible for high-level political coordination and engagement with critical stakeholders across the country.
Akobundu, who is also a serving senator representing Abia Central, will oversee the day-to-day running of the campaign and coordinate its various arms.
The campaign structure comprises six operational directorates and 30 directors, with the organisers saying the arrangement was designed to limit duplication and give each appointee clearly defined responsibilities.
El-Rufai’s appointment comes while he remains in ICPC custody amid ongoing corruption-related proceedings.
Reports say he has pleaded not guilty to allegations involving money laundering and conversion of public property. The legal proceedings remain ongoing, and the allegations have not been established as convictions.
His detention is the reason some reports have described the appointment as El-Rufai helping to lead the campaign “from prison.” However, the formal campaign announcement identifies him specifically as Deputy Chairman, rather than the overall head of the campaign.
Veteran journalist and publisher Dele Momodu was appointed Deputy Director-General of the Media and Communications Directorate.
Former Kogi State senator Dino Melaye was assigned responsibility for Contact and Mobilisation, while economist and banker Mohammed Hayatudeen will coordinate the campaign’s Policy Team.
Former APC National Chairman John Oyegun will chair the Campaign Advisory Council, with former Senator Ben Obi and Lawal Batagarawa serving as deputy chairmen.
The campaign said its activities would focus not only on political mobilisation but also on issues it says are affecting Nigerians, including the cost of living, unemployment, insecurity, declining purchasing power and governance.
Atiku’s team described the campaign structure as a lean organisation built around competence, accountability, national inclusion and clearly defined responsibilities.
The announcement comes as political parties and presidential contenders continue preparations and mobilisation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
