Momentum is steadily building within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general election, following indications that former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is open to serving as running mate to Peter Obi if the party ultimately zones its presidential ticket to the South.
Kwankwaso’s comments, made during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Monday, have further intensified political discussions around a possible Obi–Kwankwaso alliance, a development analysts say could significantly alter the opposition landscape ahead of the next presidential election.
The former Kano governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement said his discussions with Obi had largely focused on the urgent need to address insecurity and restore stability across the country.
“Both of us, my humble self and Peter Obi, have agreed to tackle the issue of insecurity head-on to ensure there is peace and stability in this country,” Kwankwaso said.
His remarks have been widely interpreted in political circles as a strong signal that key opposition figures are exploring strategic partnerships aimed at mounting a more formidable challenge in 2027.
When asked whether he would accept a vice-presidential slot should Obi emerge as the NDC presidential candidate, Kwankwaso responded in the affirmative, while stressing that such a decision would depend on the party’s zoning arrangement.
“If the party decides that I should be the running mate of any candidate from the south under the circumstances, I’d be happy to work together with him,” he said.
The statement has added fresh momentum to ongoing conversations about opposition realignment, particularly as both politicians continue to command significant political influence in their respective regions.
Obi maintains strong appeal among urban voters and segments of the southern electorate following his 2023 presidential bid, while Kwankwaso retains deep grassroots support in Kano and across parts of northern Nigeria through the Kwankwasiyya political structure.
Political analysts believe a partnership between both figures could reshape electoral dynamics by merging Obi’s reform-driven support base with Kwankwaso’s entrenched northern political network.
Kwankwaso also expressed confidence in the potential strength of such an alliance, describing it as a combination with the capacity to deliver meaningful national change.
“Personally, I cannot remember any better combination, no matter how much time is given to find those who can beat us in terms of doing the right thing for this country,” he said.
The development comes amid increased efforts by opposition politicians to consolidate ahead of 2027, against the backdrop of public concerns over insecurity, economic hardship and governance challenges.
Both Kwankwaso and Obi recently joined the NDC after separate political engagements with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that has heightened speculation about the emergence of a broader opposition coalition.
Although the NDC is still in the process of strengthening its national structure, political observers say the involvement of high-profile figures such as Obi and Kwankwaso could significantly boost the party’s visibility and electoral prospects ahead of the polls.
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