As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, political watchers are keenly observing the next steps of Bukola Saraki, former Senate President and one-time powerhouse in Nigerian politics.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Following his defeats in the 2019 and 2023 elections, Saraki has adopted a notably quiet stance, fueling growing speculation about his political intentions. Despite significant developments within the opposition, Saraki has largely stayed away from recent coalition talks involving his long-time associate and PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

This absence has sparked rumors—ranging from a possible return to contest the Kwara Central senatorial seat, a comeback to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), or even a complete withdrawal from active politics.

However, sources from a closed-door meeting with Saraki during a recent visit to Ilorin reveal that he has no plans to rejoin the APC, dismissing the speculation as deliberate misinformation. Saraki reportedly expressed doubt about forming a new political party, citing President Bola Tinubu’s firm grip on power and loyalty from several governors across party lines, which he believes would stifle any new political alliance.

A potential strategy, insiders suggest, may mirror the path taken by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—remaining in the PDP while showing support for the presidency. This would allow Saraki to retain his political leverage without formally defecting, helping to preserve the Saraki dynasty in Kwara politics.

Despite losing key allies to the APC in 2023 and the earlier impact of the 2019 “Otoge” political revolution, PDP leaders in Kwara insist Saraki’s influence is far from over. PDP state chairman and former Kwara House of Assembly Speaker, Babatunde Mohammed, assured that all positions in the 2027 elections would be contested fairly, with no imposition of candidates.

PDP spokesperson Olushola Adewara confirmed Saraki remains firmly in the PDP, while others close to the former Senate President claim his silence is a calculated strategy to watch unfolding events before making a move.

Political analysts believe Saraki’s comeback depends on timely and strategic political re-engagement, warning against repeating the past mistake of reactivating too close to the elections. The Kwankwasiyya movement in Kano was cited as a blueprint—having rebounded from a 2019 loss to a sweeping 2023 victory.

Saraki’s media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, said the former Senate President is currently performing the Lesser Hajj in Saudi Arabia, and thus unavailable to comment.

Meanwhile, political scholars argue Saraki’s next move could range from staying within the PDP, aligning with the APC, or joining a new party—depending on political calculations and alliances.

A lecturer from Kwara State University, Seyid Hassan Cisse, noted that while Saraki may not contest the presidency, his influence within the PDP remains significant. He described Saraki as a tactical political strategist who may still surprise observers.

Despite recent challenges, sources affirm Saraki will remain active in Kwara politics, striving to keep his political structure alive amid increasing pressure and uncertainty.