Talks are ongoing between the camps of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over a possible joint ticket ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Kwankwaso is expected to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) today, where he will be received by the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola. He is likely to move to the party alongside the immediate past deputy governor of Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo.
The move follows a series of political meetings in recent days. Kwankwaso visited former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in Abuja, after earlier holding talks with Aregbesola. He was also visited during the Sallah period in Kano by Obi, alongside Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Bayelsa governor Seriake Dickson.
On Sunday, Kwankwaso officially resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), describing the decision as necessary for political realignment ahead of 2027.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the NNPP with immediate effect,” he said, adding that the current political climate requires a new platform capable of delivering meaningful change.
His exit has sparked discussions about a broader political movement. The NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, said a partnership between Kwankwaso and Obi would naturally lead to a major shift in the political landscape.
According to him, the party could align with whichever platform Kwankwaso chooses, including the ADC, if a joint ticket materialises.
On the Obi side, former campaign spokesman and Obidient Movement coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, said the idea of an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is gaining popularity among Nigerians.
“I started this conversation, and from what we’re seeing, it appears to be one of the most acceptable options if you go by public opinion,” he said.
Tanko added that both leaders appear more open to working together than they were during the 2023 elections, noting that their positions have evolved.
He also ruled out the possibility of forming a new political party, explaining that it is no longer feasible at this stage. Instead, he hinted at a possible alliance among opposition parties ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, both camps dismissed claims that Obi’s recent reception in Kano was staged or involved a rented crowd. They insisted the turnout was spontaneous and reflected genuine public support.
As consultations continue, political observers believe a potential alliance between Kwankwaso and Obi could reshape the opposition landscape and set the stage for a highly competitive 2027 election.
