2027: Kwankwaso explains Obi alliance, declares Ganduje, Yusuf finished

Rabiu Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and the vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 Nigeria Democratic Congress, has detailed the rationale behind his political alliance with Peter Obi for the upcoming presidential election. Kwankwaso asserted that the decision was primarily motivated by a commitment to national interest, equity, and the imperative for political transformation in Nigeria.

Speaking in Abuja during the News Agency of Nigeria Personality Interview Series, Kwankwaso, who also served as a former defense minister, declared that former governors Ibrahim Shekarau and Abdullahi Ganduje, as well as the current Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, have lost their political influence within the state. He reflected on the political trajectories of former allies who had since parted ways with him.

Kwankwaso explained that his choice to run as Peter Obi's running mate in 2027 was founded on principles of national balance and equity. He also cited the need for democratic change, emphasizing that the South should retain the presidency for another term following former President Muhammadu Buhari's eight-year tenure. "People learn every day, and that is why experience is very important," Kwankwaso stated. "In 2023, we attempted to work together and at that particular point, I knew little about Peter Obi. But over these last four years, I was able to learn a lot and realised that Peter is somebody that I could work together with."

The decision, he added, followed extensive consultations with members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, supporters of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, and the Obidient Movement. These groups collectively agreed that Nigeria required a balanced presidential ticket capable of garnering support from both the northern and southern regions.

Kwankwaso further highlighted the nation's pressing security challenges, declining agricultural productivity, and deteriorating infrastructure as critical factors reinforcing his resolve to support a political arrangement that could usher in democratic change. He specifically noted the adverse impact of economic hardship on farmers in Northern Nigeria, where agricultural activities have become increasingly difficult and unprofitable. The former minister also pointed to the widespread dilapidation of infrastructure across the country, with few exceptions like Lagos, as another significant reason for aligning with Obi. He believes the current situation demands the kind of democratic change Nigerians sought in 2015, a need he considers even more urgent today. Kwankwaso anticipates that the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket will offer a compelling combination of regional balance, competence, and credibility.

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People learn every day, and that is why experience is very important. In 2023, we attempted to work together and at that particular point, I knew little about Peter Obi. But over these last four years, I was able to learn a lot and realised that Peter is somebody that I could work together with.