Atiku Abubakar Appoints El-Rufai as Campaign Deputy Chair

Dele Momodu, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress and Deputy Director-General of Atiku Abubakar's 2027 Presidential Campaign Council, explained that Abubakar's decision to appoint former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai as Deputy Chairman was to recognize El-Rufai's political sacrifices. Momodu made these remarks during a Channels Television appearance, following Atiku's unveiling of the campaign council, which also named Kashim Ibrahim-Imam as chairman.

He noted that El-Rufai's return to Nigeria, despite the risk of arrest, demonstrated his commitment, asserting that El-Rufai had not committed any crime. Momodu criticized the excessive bail conditions imposed on El-Rufai, stating they were harsh.

He also highlighted El-Rufai's significant role in the emergence of President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, claiming that Tinubu might not be in office without El-Rufai's influence. The campaign council includes other notable figures such as former APC National Chairman John Oyegun, Momodu, and Dino Melaye.