Fresh political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered significant momentum over the weekend as former Kano State governor and the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, concluded plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a development that may considerably reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
The move follows the conclusion of high-level consultations and negotiations with the leadership of the ADC, amid growing speculation about a possible opposition alliance that could potentially produce a joint presidential ticket involving Peter Obi and Kwankwaso.
Barring any last-minute changes, the former governor, who formally resigned from the NNPP on Sunday, is expected to officially register as a member of the ADC today in Kano.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that while Kwankwaso’s decision has sent shockwaves through the NNPP leadership, several influential figures within the party are reportedly unwilling to follow him to his new political platform. This development may trigger internal restructuring and fresh political calculations within the NNPP.
The National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, confirmed the planned defection, describing it as a major boost for the opposition’s efforts to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Also confirming the development, the Kwankwasiyya Movement, through its spokesperson, Habib Mohammed, said all necessary arrangements had been concluded for Kwankwaso’s formal entry into the party.
According to Mohammed, members of the movement across the country have been directed to immediately register with the ADC and actively participate in party affairs.
“The Kwankwasiyya Movement wishes to formally inform all its members across Nigeria and the general public that our Supreme Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has concluded all necessary arrangements to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the former governor would formally register at his residence in Kano, urging members nationwide to actively contribute to the growth and success of the party at all levels.
Why Kwankwaso Chose ADC
On why Kwankwaso opted for the ADC instead of the ruling APC, a source close to the development said joining the APC was never seriously considered.
“APC was never really on the table. Some individuals had wanted him to move there because they needed his political structure, but eventually those discussions did not progress,” the source said.
NNPP Reacts with Surprise
Meanwhile, sources within the NNPP disclosed that the party leadership was not formally informed before the announcement made by the Kwankwasiyya Movement.
A senior party source said the leadership would meet to determine its official position on the development, insisting that the party would remain active despite Kwankwaso’s exit.
“The announcement was made by the Kwankwasiyya Movement and not by the NNPP leadership. The party remains intact and will continue to be active in the political space,” the source said.
The source added that it remained unclear whether Kwankwaso had secured any specific position within the ADC, noting that such matters would likely be determined by zoning arrangements and party primaries.
Emerging Political Calculations
Providing insight into the evolving political dynamics, another source pointed to differences in strategic outlook among opposition leaders.
According to the source, Kwankwaso is believed to favour the South retaining the presidency for another four years in the interest of political balance, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s camp reportedly prefers an immediate power shift.
“There are two major schools of thought. Kwankwaso appears to believe the South should complete another term for balance, while the Atiku group wants power to rotate immediately. That is the major difference,” the source said.
The source further noted that Kwankwaso’s recent engagements with key southern political figures, including Seyi Makinde and Peter Obi, indicate a broader strategy aimed at building alliances across regions.
Kwankwaso Explains Resignation
In his formal resignation letter, Kwankwaso said his decision was driven by the need for strategic political realignment.
“I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, with immediate effect,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve as its national leader and presidential candidate during the 2023 elections.
“This was not an easy decision to make,” he stated, adding that the present political climate required a new direction capable of delivering meaningful national change.
“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation.”
Kwankwaso also appreciated party leaders and members for their support and pledged continued collaboration in the interest of national development.
ADC Pushes for Opposition Unity
Speaking on the development, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi described Kwankwaso’s entry as a significant gain for the opposition.
“We are excited. It confirms what we have consistently maintained — that all opposition forces need to come together. We are facing a common national challenge, and there is a need to unite to rescue the country. Kwankwaso’s coming will strengthen our party and intensify efforts to remove the APC from power,” he said.
Consensus Option for 2027 Presidency
The ADC also disclosed that it is working towards adopting a consensus approach in selecting its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a television interview, Abdullahi said the party was considering either direct primaries or a consensus arrangement, noting that indirect primaries were no longer an option under the amended Electoral Act.
“We are trying as much as possible to adopt the consensus approach because that is the least costly for us. The best-case scenario is to engineer consensus, and that is what we are working on,” he said.
He also criticised the APC, arguing that the party’s continued dominance is tied largely to its present leadership.
“If power is taken away from the APC, the party may quickly begin to unravel. The current president remains the glue holding the party together,” he said.
Abdullahi further claimed that Nigerians were increasingly dissatisfied with the ruling party, insisting that the opposition stands a strong chance in any free and fair election.
Among those already being mentioned as possible presidential contenders on the ADC platform are Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi.
Kwankwaso Set to Join ADC as 2027 Political Realignments Gather Momentum
