Peter Obi names Kwankwaso as running mate

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has officially announced former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate for the upcoming 2027 presidential election. The announcement came shortly after Obi was confirmed as the NDC's flagbearer during the party's presidential primary.

This significant political development follows the recent defection of both Obi and Kwankwaso from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the NDC. Their departure from the ADC was attributed to internal divisions and ongoing legal disputes within their former party. The decision to unite under the NDC banner is seen as a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces.

The pairing of Obi and Kwankwaso is anticipated to reshape Nigeria's political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle. Obi commands considerable support among young voters and in the southeastern and southern regions of the country. Kwankwaso, conversely, maintains a strong and influential base in Kano and other parts of Northern Nigeria through his established political movement.

Leaders within the NDC have expressed confidence that the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket will bolster the party's prospects in the presidential contest. By bringing together two prominent opposition figures with distinct regional strongholds, the NDC aims to present a formidable challenge in the election.