The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has unveiled key members of its presidential campaign council for the 2027 general elections, with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai named as Deputy Chairman.
The appointment was made by ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar as the opposition party begins preparations for the forthcoming presidential election.
El-Rufai’s appointment comes despite his continued detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Ibrahim-Imam to chair campaign council
Kashim Ibrahim-Imam has been appointed Chairman of the Presidential Campaign Council.
He will be supported by El-Rufai as Deputy Chairman.
The party also appointed Senator Augustine Okwudiri Akobundu as Director-General and Campaign Manager.
The structure is expected to oversee the party’s campaign operations and political engagement ahead of the 2027 election.
El-Rufai’s detention
The former Kaduna governor has remained in ICPC custody since February 2026.
The anti-corruption agency has said his detention is connected to an ongoing investigation and that it is being carried out under a court-authorized remand order.
In March, the ICPC said a court had granted an extension of the remand period while investigations continued. The commission also said it was complying with the court’s requirements concerning the detention.
El-Rufai has challenged aspects of his detention and related legal proceedings in court.
Campaign role
Under the newly announced campaign structure, El-Rufai is expected to take part in senior-level political coordination.
His responsibilities are also expected to include engagement with political stakeholders and other groups across the country.
The appointment adds another senior political figure to Atiku’s campaign organization as preparations for the 2027 election continue.
Meanwhile, El-Rufai faces separate legal proceedings over allegations relating to the interception of communications involving National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
Those proceedings are separate from the ICPC investigation connected to allegations arising from his tenure as Kaduna State governor.
The various cases remain subject to ongoing legal proceedings.
