Kwankwaso knocks ex-Borno gov over comments on Peter Obi’s northern support

Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has publicly criticized Ali Modu Sheriff, the ex-Governor of Borno State, for questioning the electoral viability of Peter Obi in Northern Nigeria. Kwankwaso, who leads the Kwankwasiyya Movement and is a presidential candidate for 2027, expressed disappointment with Sheriff's recent remarks, stating they did not reflect the political realities of the region.

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After a prolonged absence from public discourse, one would have expected that time away might have sharpened Senator Sheriff’s judgment. Regrettably, that does not appear to be the case.

In a statement posted on X, Kwankwaso defended Peter Obi's past performance, noting that Obi secured approximately 2.8 million votes in the North during his first presidential bid. Kwankwaso argued that this achievement should not be dismissed lightly. He further suggested that prevailing economic and social difficulties, coupled with the perceived failures of the current administration, have bolstered the prospects for the "OK ticket" in the North.

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For the record, in his first outing on the presidential ballot, Mr Obi secured approximately 2.8 million votes in the region, a remarkable achievement that cannot be dismissed lightly.

Kwankwaso specifically refuted Sheriff's assertion that Kano residents would not support Obi. He asserted that the people of Kano have historically backed candidates endorsed by the Kwankwasiyya Movement, irrespective of ethnic or regional affiliations. "The good people of Kano are neither bigoted nor xenophobic. They have consistently demonstrated strong trust in the Kwankwasiyya movement and will support any credible ticket presented under its banner," Kwankwaso stated.

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The good people of Kano are neither bigoted nor xenophobic. They have consistently demonstrated strong trust in the Kwankwasiyya movement and will support any credible ticket presented under its banner.

The former governor urged Sheriff to redirect his focus towards the pressing security and humanitarian issues in Borno State, rather than making divisive comments. Kwankwaso concluded by positioning the "OK ticket" as the most promising opportunity for Nigerians to reset the country towards competence, unity, and progress.

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The OK ticket currently represents the best opportunity for Nigerians to reset the country and place it on a path of competence, unity, and progress.