2027: Kwankwaso explains choice to run with Obi
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Rabiu Kwankwaso explained his decision to partner with Peter Obi on the Nigeria Democratic Congress ticket for the 2027 elections, citing a need for a new approach to governance.
- He highlighted critical national challenges including rising costs, unemployment, high business operating expenses, and insecurity.
- Kwankwaso emphasized that their partnership is based on a shared vision for Nigeria, focusing on accountable governance, economic opportunity, and inclusivity, rather than regional or religious ties.
Former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has detailed his rationale for seeking the vice-presidential ticket alongside Peter Obi under the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the upcoming 2027 general elections. Kwankwaso stated that their alliance is driven by a fundamental need for a different approach to governing Nigeria.
As the 2027 presidential campaign officially begins, I call on every Nigerian to reflect deeply on the state of our nation and the kind of country we want to leave for the next generation.
Speaking as political activities for the 2027 elections intensify, Kwankwaso described Nigeria as being at a critical juncture. He pointed to pressing issues such as the escalating cost of food and essential goods, widespread unemployment, prohibitive business operating costs, and persistent insecurity as major burdens on citizens. "As the 2027 presidential campaign officially begins, I call on every Nigerian to reflect deeply on the state of our nation and the kind of country we want to leave for the next generation," he urged.
Our farmers need security to return to their farms, our children need safe schools, and every Nigerian deserves to live without fear.
Kwankwaso specifically addressed the pervasive insecurity, noting that terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping continue to threaten communities and disrupt lives. He stressed the importance of ensuring farmers can return to their fields safely, children can attend school without fear, and all Nigerians can live without constant apprehension. Beyond security and the economy, he identified education, healthcare, infrastructure, and institutional reform as areas demanding urgent government attention and investment.
Our education and healthcare systems require urgent investment. Our infrastructure must be improved, our institutions strengthened, and public resources managed with greater transparency and accountability.
Explaining the partnership with Obi, Kwankwaso clarified that it transcends regional, religious, or personal ambitions. Instead, it is founded on a shared vision for the nation, centered on principles of accountable governance, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring inclusivity. "We believe in a country where government serves the people, where hard work is rewarded, where young people can build successful futures at home, and where every citizen has a fair opportunity to prosper," he stated. Kwankwaso encouraged broad participation in the political process, particularly from young people and other key demographics, advocating for issue-based campaigns.
This is why I have chosen to work with His Excellency, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket. Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.