Tag: Kwankwaso

  • Kwankwasiyya Faction Denies Report of Kwankwaso’s Planned Exit From NDC Over Kano Candidate List

    The Kwankwasiyya faction has dismissed reports claiming that former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is planning to leave the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over alleged disputes surrounding candidate lists in Kano State.

    The clarification comes amid reports suggesting tensions within the party following the replacement of some candidates reportedly backed by the Kwankwasiyya political movement.

    Dispute Over Candidate List

    According to earlier reports, the changes in the Kano State candidate list were made as part of efforts to implement a power-sharing arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya bloc and the existing party structure.

    Party documents reportedly indicated a 60-40 arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya movement and the original NDC structure to balance influence within the state chapter.

    The adjustment allegedly triggered speculation about internal disagreements over control of party positions.

    Faction Dismisses Exit Rumours

    Reacting to the reports, Kwankwasiyya spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, described the claims as unfounded and based on social media speculation.

    “Well, this is still a rumour. It is just being circulated on social media,” he said.

    He maintained that the faction conducted its primaries in line with legal provisions and the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Primaries Conducted Without Crisis

    Mohammed explained that the primaries were held on May 29 following a consensus-building process that produced candidates for various positions.

    He said there were no objections from party members during the exercise and that the process was concluded smoothly.

    “Before that date, there were processes that led to consensus and candidates emerged for different positions. There were no complaints from party members or aspirants,” he stated.

    Kwankwaso Not Planning Exit

    The faction also insisted that there has been no internal discussion suggesting that Kwankwaso intends to leave the NDC.

    Mohammed added that the matter remains based on speculation circulating online, stressing that the leadership remains focused on party activities and ongoing political processes.

  • Kwankwaso Fires Back at Governor Yusuf, Defends “Political Boy” Comment

    Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has intensified his political disagreement with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after dismissing claims that he insulted the governor by referring to him as a “boy” or “stooge.”

    Kwankwaso spoke while addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano, where he defended his comments and insisted they reflected political mentorship within the Kwankwasiyya movement rather than disrespect.

    Kwankwaso Responds to Governor Yusuf

    The latest exchange followed remarks by Governor Yusuf, who reportedly criticised Kwankwaso over comments suggesting he was politically subordinate to him.

    Reacting to the criticism, Kwankwaso argued that several politicians who rose through his political structure had previously been described in similar terms without controversy.

    “I heard that some people said they dislike being called boys. If not for insolence, how could Mai Gidan Ruwa or Aminu Goro say they were not my boys politically?” he said.

    Reference to Ganduje Raises Attention

    Kwankwaso also referenced former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje while defending his position.

    “How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” he added during the address to supporters.

    The remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing his long-standing influence within Kano politics and the Kwankwasiyya political movement, which has remained one of the dominant political structures in the state for years.

    Political Tension Within Kwankwasiyya

    The comments have further fuelled speculation about growing tension between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf despite both figures being closely linked politically.

    Governor Yusuf emerged under the Kwankwasiyya political structure and has repeatedly acknowledged Kwankwaso’s role in his political rise. However, recent public disagreements have triggered discussions about possible cracks within the movement.

    Political observers in Kano believe the latest exchange may deepen internal divisions ahead of future political alignments in the state.

    Supporters React as Debate Continues

    The development has generated mixed reactions among supporters of both leaders, with some defending Kwankwaso’s comments as political reality while others described the remarks as unnecessary and disrespectful.

    The dispute also comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections in Kano and across Nigeria.

  • “I’ll gladly work with him” — Kwankwaso opens up on becoming Peter Obi’s running mate in 2027

    Former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has declared that he would willingly serve as Peter Obi’s running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election if chosen by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Kwankwaso made the disclosure during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme while speaking on ongoing political realignments ahead of the next general election.

    Kwankwaso speaks on Obi alliance

    According to the former governor, he would gladly collaborate with Obi if the party eventually settles for the former Labour Party presidential candidate as its presidential flag bearer.

    He stated that both leaders have already reached a common understanding on the need to tackle insecurity and stabilise the country.

    “We have agreed to tackle the issue of insecurity head-on to ensure there is peace and stability in this country,” Kwankwaso said.

    Ready to accept VP role

    Speaking further, Kwankwaso said he would not hesitate to accept a vice-presidential slot if the party leadership decides on such an 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 stated.

    The former Kano governor also described a possible Obi-Kwankwaso alliance as one of the strongest political combinations ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “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 added.

    Political realignments intensify ahead of 2027

    The development comes amid increasing political movements and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Both Kwankwaso and Peter Obi were recently linked with the Nigeria Democratic Congress after previously being associated with the African Democratic Congress.

    The reported alliance has continued to generate conversations within Nigeria’s political space, especially among opposition supporters seeking a stronger coalition ahead of the next presidential election.

     

  • ‘Tinubu Cancelled Trip Over Obi, Kwankwaso Move?’ — Viral Claim Sparks Fresh Political Debate

    A viral political claim circulating on social media has stirred fresh debate after a man alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cancelled a planned foreign trip over recent opposition realignments.

    The claim, which has gained traction online, links the alleged decision to reports of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso moving to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Claims of calculated political strategy

    In the widely shared post, the man argued that the emergence of the NDC was not sudden but part of a long-term political strategy.

    He referenced former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, suggesting that the development involved experienced political actors and careful planning.

    According to him, the situation intensified when it became clear that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would not serve as the main coalition platform.

    Allegations of legislative response

    The man further claimed that the development triggered urgent moves within the National Assembly to block last-minute political defections.

    “The NDC movement wasn’t an impromptu movement,” he wrote. “What quickened it was that when Tinubu found out ADC wasn’t the mainstream coalition party, he quickly sent his boys to the NASS to pass a bill which will prevent any last minute movement.”

    The claim, however, has not been independently verified.

    Speculation over alleged trip cancellation

    He also suggested that the reported defection of Obi and Kwankwaso forced a swift response from the ruling camp.

    “You think Tinubu cancelled his health trip for fun? It’s bigger than what many think,” he added.

    There has been no official confirmation from the Presidency regarding any cancelled trip or its connection to political developments.

    Mixed reactions trail claim

    The post has since generated mixed reactions, with some users expressing concern over shifting political alliances, while others dismissed the claim as speculation.

    As of the time of filing this report, there is no verified evidence linking any presidential travel decision to the alleged political movements.

  • Obi, Kwankwaso Join NDC After Dumping ADC Ahead of 2027 Race

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and his New Nigeria Peoples Party counterpart, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The development comes shortly after Obi announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday, citing internal challenges within the party.

    NDC welcomes new entrants

    Both politicians were received at the party’s headquarters in Abuja by NDC National Leader, Henry Seriake Dickson, and National Chairman, Moses Cleopas.

    Party leaders described their defection as a major boost, signalling growing confidence in the NDC across the country.

    Move linked to 2027 ambitions

    The decision by the two former governors is seen as part of ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    Their entry into the NDC is expected to shape discussions within opposition circles as parties begin early positioning.

    Obi cites internal crisis in ADC

    Earlier, Obi explained that his decision to leave the ADC was influenced by persistent internal disputes and legal battles within the party.

    He described the political environment as increasingly hostile, noting that even within alliances, individuals often face unexpected opposition.

    ‘Decision not personal’ — Obi

    The former Anambra governor said his exit was not due to personal issues with party leaders, including David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    He reiterated his belief in leadership as service, adding that he has never used power to oppress others.

    Obi also dismissed claims that his political moves are driven by personal ambition.

  • Kwankwaso Denies Defection Plans, Says Talks Ongoing Amid ADC Crisis

    Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has dismissed reports claiming he has concluded plans to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying no final decision has been made.

    Kwankwaso reacts to defection claims

    In a statement shared on his X account, Kwankwaso said ongoing consultations are being held but stressed that his political future remains undecided.

    “We have commenced wide-ranging consultations… to explore the best options for protecting our democratic interests,” he said.

    ADC crisis fuels consultations

    He pointed to the lingering leadership crisis within the ADC as a key reason for the ongoing talks.

    Kwankwaso noted that the recent Supreme Court ruling, which affirmed the David Mark-led leadership but returned parts of the dispute to the lower court, has left the party in a difficult position.

    Court rulings deepen uncertainty

    The former governor also referenced a Federal High Court judgment that invalidated the party’s convention, alongside moves to deregister the ADC.

    He said the situation mirrors the legal challenges that earlier forced him out of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

    “The ADC has now been also forced into this difficulty,” he stated.

    Talks with NDC, PRP ongoing

    Kwankwaso confirmed that discussions are ongoing with leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and other stakeholders.

    He assured that a final decision would be communicated at the appropriate time.

    No position yet on 2027 race

    Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Kwankwaso said he has neither declared interest nor endorsed any candidate.

    He reiterated his history of supporting party unity, recalling his roles in previous primaries and elections.

    Absence from meetings explained

    Kwankwaso also clarified that his absence from recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings was due to prior commitments, adding that party leaders were informed in advance.

  • Obi, Kwankwaso Supporters Plan Abuja Unity Summit Amid Defection Talks

    Supporters of former Anambra and Kano governors, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, are set to hold a unity summit in Abuja as political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections gather pace.

    Summit to push unity agenda

    The event, themed ‘One Voice, One Vision: In Unity We Win’, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in the Federal Capital Territory.

    Organisers say the summit is aimed at aligning political interests and strengthening collaboration among supporters of both leaders.

    Key figures billed to speak

    A flyer shared by the OK Movement shows that several political figures and activists are expected to speak at the event.

    Among them are Buba Galadima of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), activist Aisha Yesufu, Isaac Fayose, Moses Paul of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Adebayo Adefolaseye, the group’s south-west coordinator.

    As of the time of filing this report, about 428 participants had registered for the summit.

    Defection rumours gain momentum

    The planned gathering comes amid growing speculation that Obi and Kwankwaso may defect from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Habibu Mohammed, spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya movement, said discussions with the NDC have reached an advanced stage.

    According to him, the move has received the backing of stakeholders and could be finalised within days.

    “I believe him, Peter Obi, and some others will be joining the NDC,” Mohammed said.

    ADC crisis fuels uncertainty

    The ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC is believed to be a major factor behind the potential defection.

    The Supreme Court recently set aside a status quo order in the dispute and returned the case to the Federal High Court, leaving the leadership issue unresolved.

    Observers say the uncertainty may affect the party’s readiness ahead of key electoral timelines.

    OK Movement backs joint ticket push

    Supporters of both politicians had earlier launched the OK Movement in April to mobilise support for a possible joint presidential ticket in 2027.

    The Abuja summit is expected to further consolidate that effort as political alignments continue to take shape.

     

  • Obi, Kwankwaso Set to Dump ADC for NDC Amid Fresh Coalition Crisis

    Fresh cracks have emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as indications show that Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso may be set to defect to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Defection plans reach final stage

    Habibu Mohammed, spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya movement, said discussions with the NDC are nearly complete.

    According to him, negotiations are “about 90 percent” concluded, with the planned defection expected within days.

    “I believe him, Peter Obi, and some others will be joining the NDC,” Mohammed said.

    Stakeholders back move unanimously

    Mohammed disclosed that stakeholders across the 44 local government areas in Kano met and endorsed the decision.

    He said the meeting, held at Kwankwaso’s residence, produced a unanimous agreement to leave the ADC.

    “The stakeholders have unanimously given him the go-ahead to move to the NDC,” he added.

    ADC crisis fuels exit talks

    The decision is linked to ongoing leadership disputes within the ADC.

    The Supreme Court had recently referred the party’s leadership case back to the Federal High Court, prolonging uncertainty.

    Mohammed said the development raised concerns about stability within the coalition.

    “It does not look feasible to stay there,” he said, citing possible prolonged litigation.

    Internal disagreements deepen divide

    He also pointed to unresolved internal issues, including disagreements over zoning and consensus candidacy.

    Peter Obi has reportedly stayed away from recent ADC meetings following concerns that zoning was not addressed.

    2027 calculations shape decisions

    The Kwankwasiyya movement said it considered other platforms, including the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), before settling on the NDC.

    Mohammed noted that looming deadlines for submission of party registers to INEC also influenced the decision.

    The development signals growing uncertainty within opposition ranks as political alignments continue to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • NDC Moves for Obi, Kwankwaso Ticket as 2027 Race Gathers Pace

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has stepped up moves ahead of the 2027 elections, openly courting Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with an offer to run on its platform.

    The party hinted at a two-week window for both politicians to decide on joining and securing its presidential ticket.

    Deadline Sparks Attention

    In a post on X, the NDC wrote: “All we need right now. Just all we need. 2 weeks to deadline,” alongside a photo of Obi and Kwankwaso shaking hands with the caption, “Nigeria will be OK.”

    The move signals growing urgency among emerging political blocs seeking to reposition before the next general election cycle.

    ‘OK Movement’ Gains Ground

    The development follows the launch of the “OK Movement” by supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso, aimed at mobilising backing for a possible joint ticket.

    Justin Ijeh, the group’s national publicity secretary, has since announced appointments into its national executive council, as well as zonal and state structures.

    Wider Opposition Realignments

    The push comes amid broader political realignments across opposition parties ahead of 2027.

    At the same time, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing an internal leadership crisis, with uncertainty over its readiness for the elections.

    On April 22, the Supreme Court reserved judgment in an appeal filed by a faction led by David Mark, challenging a suit involving party leadership.

    Race for 2027 Intensifies

    The NDC’s latest move adds to growing manoeuvres among political actors positioning for the 2027 presidential race, as alliances and negotiations continue to shape the opposition landscape.

  • Kwankwaso Arrives Ibadan for Opposition Leaders’ Summit Hosted by Makinde

    Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has arrived in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders.

    The former presidential candidate disclosed this in a post on his X account on Saturday, expressing readiness for high-level engagements.

    Summit brings opposition figures together

    The summit is being hosted by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with several political figures expected to participate.

    Kwankwaso described the meeting as an opportunity for meaningful discussions among national leaders.

    “Excited to arrive in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders, hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde,” he wrote.

    “Ready for meaningful engagements with fellow national leaders.”

    Focus on political consultations

    Although details of the agenda were not disclosed, the gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures ahead of future political alignments.

    The meeting comes amid increasing talks around coalition-building and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.