2027 : We are ready to work with Peter Obi, others if….

Former Kano State governor and 2023 presidential flag bearer of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabi’u Kwankwaso, says the 2027 general elections will be highly competitive, adding that his party is open to collaborations with key political figures, including President Bola Tinubu and Labour Party’s Peter Obi.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso, who recently turned 69, said the NNPP is willing to align with any political group or leader that shares its commitment to improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

“If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain. We have gubernatorial candidates in all the states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join?” Kwankwaso said while hosting Buhari Bakwana, a former political adviser to ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, along with APC members from all 44 local government areas of Kano State, at his residence on Miller Road.

Kwankwaso had earlier, in September, hinted that the NNPP could consider an alliance with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), provided such a move would offer clear advantages to his party.

President Tinubu, who is said to have held a series of discussions with the opposition leader in recent years, has previously referred to Kwankwaso as a “friend within the progressive fold.”

Reaffirming his openness to political partnerships, Kwankwaso told the BBC that any cooperation would depend on shared values and integrity.

He said, “We’re ready for anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we are satisfied with their competence, we will join forces to achieve success. What we are looking for are competent leaders with integrity. The key thing is that whoever we ally with, be it the APC or another party, must be committed to the needs of Nigerians. If they fail to meet our expectations, we would not continue with them.

“What we are asking for is that the common people should benefit, that the masses should be free, the youth educated and security improved. Our people are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, parts of Kaduna, and other states. The victims are ordinary citizens, because the elites have fled to Abuja, where they are living in luxury. Some of them, like members of the House of Representatives, senators and ministers, have no concern other than enriching themselves, buying big houses, and flaunting expensive cars. They are appointed to positions and act as if they are untouchable, but I am confident that Allah will judge them accordingly.”

The NNPP leader predicted that voter awareness and participation will make the 2027 elections tougher than previous ones.

“I believe the 2027 elections will be much tougher. Unlike before, people are now more involved and more concerned. Everyone is looking for a way out because of the country’s situation. Thanks to radio and social media, the masses are now informed. Everyone is trying to secure a better future for themselves, their families and their loved ones.

“This time, nobody would come on election day asking for money to cast their votes. You may probably see new things unfold; things that have never happened before in Nigeria’s electoral history.”