As preparations for the 2027 elections gain momentum, former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is considering teaming up with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
This follows the defection of his Governor, Abba Yusuf, along with most members of the Kano State House of Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Kwankwaso is reportedly in discussions with the ADC about joining the coalition party along with members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, his loyal supporters.
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, is set to formally defect to the APC, despite opposition from Kwankwaso, sparking disagreement within the Kwankwasiyya movement. Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Yitwalda Nentawe, former governor Abdullahi Ganduje, and the state chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, are expected to attend the ceremony marking Yusuf’s defection.
If the talks between Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso succeed, it could significantly reshape opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections. Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso placed second, third, and fourth in the 2023 presidential election. While the APC currently holds 28 governorships, the opposition is quietly rebuilding, betting on public dissatisfaction to reset the political balance.
Obi defected to the ADC with his supporters, including opposition National Assembly and State Assembly lawmakers. ADC chieftain Dr. Ladan Salihu described Obi’s defection as a political blockbuster, positioning the party as a major challenger to the ruling APC.
Mutfwang Defects to APC
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang formally defected to the APC, framing the move as a step toward unifying the state’s political landscape and strengthening Plateau’s influence nationally. The defection ceremony in Jos was attended by federal and state lawmakers, party leaders, and government officials.
Mutfwang stated that his decision followed “prayer, consultation, and deep reflection,” emphasizing reconciliation with former Governor Simon Lalong and the symbolic importance of sitting alongside former political opponents. He reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and pledged support for his administration and re-election.
The APC State Chairman, Rufus Bature, welcomed Mutfwang, presenting him with his APC membership card. Mutfwang defected along with his deputy, members of the State Executive Council, appointees, and local government chairmen.
The PDP, Plateau State chapter, criticized Mutfwang’s defection as a betrayal of public trust and political opportunism, arguing there were no constitutional grounds for defecting without vacating his seat. The party called on members to remain calm and assured them of its commitment to good governance and upcoming elections.
PDP: Opposition Must Agree to Work Together
The PDP said its immediate priority is addressing legal issues concerning party leadership before rebuilding. National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong emphasized that alliances with other parties would be discussed later, noting the need for opposition unity to defeat the ruling party.
Ladan Salihu: Peter Obi Joining ADC Is Political Blockbuster
The ADC said Obi’s defection strengthens its position in the 2027 presidential election. Ladan Salihu described the move as a defining moment, highlighting the combined influence of Obi and Atiku, who together garnered about 63 percent of the 2023 presidential votes.
Salihu dismissed claims of factionalism within the ADC and warned against political interference from the ruling party. He emphasized internal democracy, asserting that aspirants must earn support through delegates. On zoning, he argued that competence should outweigh regional considerations.
He expressed confidence in the ADC’s ability to resist political pressure, consolidate support, and challenge any political structure successfully in upcoming elections.
