By: Karen James,
Abuja, Nigeria — In a move that has sparked intense political conversations across the nation, 2023 Abia Governorship candidate under Accord Party and National Convener of the South East Mandate for Good Governance (SEMGG), Bishop (Prof) Emeka Nwankpa, has held a private strategic meeting with former Kaduna State Governor and influential national figure, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, at his residence in Abuja.
While the content of the closed-door meeting has not been officially disclosed, credible insider sources suggest the discussions centred on ongoing political realignments and coalition-building efforts gaining momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This development comes as various advocacy platforms and interest blocs—particularly from the South East—begin to rally under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is now being viewed by many as the nation’s most credible third force. According to political insiders, El-Rufai is playing a key role in shaping this evolving coalition.
Bishop Nwankpa, a renowned academic, fiery cleric, and respected voice in the region, has consistently championed equity, justice, and inclusive governance. Under his leadership, the SEMGG has grown into a powerful non-partisan platform promoting issue-based politics, youth involvement, and inter-regional cooperation.
El-Rufai, on his part, remains one of Nigeria’s most strategic and reform-minded politicians, with national reach and a track record of governance that makes his alignment in this coalition highly significant.
A trusted source familiar with the meeting told Pechilly Investigative Media:
“This wasn’t just a courtesy visit. It’s part of a calculated conversation aimed at repositioning national politics away from the old order. There’s a clear interest in building a fresh political alternative that reflects the realities and expectations of Nigerians today.”
In a brief telephone conversation with this correspondent, Prof. Emeka Nwankpa confirmed that he led the SEMGG team to meet “one of Nigeria’s highly respected political leaders,” but remained tight-lipped about specific details.
“We had fruitful discussions. I will speak to the press in due course,” he said.
Back in Abia State, the political terrain is already buzzing with speculation. Is Bishop Nwankpa gearing up to contest the governorship again in 2027, this time under the ADC? Or is he taking on a broader national role as a statesman and coalition builder in response to Nigeria’s deepening governance challenges?
Regardless of the immediate intent, one thing is certain—this meeting has shifted the narrative.
Observers are interpreting this “handshake across the Niger” as more than symbolic. It may be the early signs of a pan-Nigerian political coalition intent on confronting the status quo and driving a truly people-focused political rebirth.
It is worth noting that Bishop Nwankpa has since resigned his membership of the Accord Party, further signaling his readiness for a fresh political journey.
With conversations around restructuring, regional inclusion, and power rotation gaining fresh momentum, the involvement of credible figures like Bishop Nwankpa and Mallam El-Rufai signals a possible new dawn in Nigeria’s political history.
As 2027 approaches, all eyes remain on the emerging alliances that may ultimately redefine the future of governance in Nigeria.
