Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has explained why he and northern political leaders decided to work with former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Kwankwaso spoke on Monday during an interview on Arise TV, where he gave details on how the alliance within the Nigeria Democratic Congress was formed and why Obi was chosen as a political partner.
According to Kwankwaso, he and key figures within the northern political structure examined different options before deciding that Obi was the best person to work with in their bid to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027. He said the decision was based on Obi’s political standing, leadership style and ability to connect with Nigerians across different regions.
The former governor dismissed claims that there could be hidden rivalry between him and Obi over future political positions. He said disagreements between political leaders and their deputies often happen because of personal interests and greed, adding that leadership positions should not create unnecessary conflicts among allies.
Kwankwaso recalled his time as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as Governor of Kano State, saying he maintained stable relationships with those he worked with during his years in office. He also said he successfully worked with his deputy governor throughout his administration and eventually handed over power peacefully.
The former NNPP presidential candidate said political cooperation between northern leaders and politicians from the South-East was not new in Nigeria’s history. He pointed to alliances formed during the First and Second Republics, including the partnership between former Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa and leaders from the eastern region, as well as the relationship between former President Shehu Shagari and his vice president, Alex Ekwueme.
Kwankwaso stated that the latest alliance with Obi was part of efforts to rebuild that political relationship. He also noted that power sharing in the country later shifted toward the South-West after the annulment of the June 12 election and the emergence of leaders from that region.
He added that Obi was not chosen simply because he comes from the South-East, but because many northern leaders believed he had the capacity to work with them and help move the country forward.
Kwankwaso and Obi recently joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress after leaving their former political platforms. Their movement into the party has already attracted lawmakers, supporters and political groups from different parts of the country.
Political observers believe the alliance could reshape opposition politics ahead of the 2027 election, especially with Kwankwaso’s influence in northern Nigeria and Obi’s support among young voters and urban communities across the country.