Former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso are set to leave the African Democratic Congress and join the Nigeria Democratic Congress as opposition realignment gathers pace ahead of the 2027 elections. Key figures in the Kwankwasiyya movement say talks with NDC leaders are now at an advanced stage, with only minor details left to be resolved.
According to leaders of the Obi Kwankwaso alliance, often called the OK Movement, the decision follows growing uncertainty over the legal and leadership situation in the ADC. They fear that ongoing court cases and internal disputes could weaken the party’s ability to serve as a stable platform for a broad opposition coalition.
A prominent Kwankwasiyya chieftain, Saifullahi Mohammed, disclosed that stakeholders from all 44 local government areas of Kano State met at Kwankwaso’s residence and unanimously endorsed the move to the NDC. He said Kwankwaso, Obi and other political heavyweights are expected to complete their defection early in the week once final consultations are concluded.
Reports also indicate that some members of the OK bloc believe the ADC has come under the influence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his allies, raising fears that the party’s structures could be shaped around his presidential ambition. They argue that joining the NDC offers a fresher platform with less internal baggage and more room to negotiate power sharing and candidate selection.
The NDC, which is promoted by former Bayelsa State governor Henry Seriake Dickson, has openly expressed readiness to offer its ticket to Obi and Kwankwaso as presidential and vice presidential candidates if they reach agreement. Party officials say they want to build a wide coalition capable of challenging the ruling party and other established opposition forces in 2027.
Analysts note that a joint Obi Kwankwaso ticket on a new platform like the NDC could reshape opposition politics, especially if it attracts smaller parties, civil society groups and young voters frustrated with the current system. However, they also warn that building a new structure strong enough to compete nationwide will require time, funding and careful management of egos within the alliance.
For now, supporters of both men are waiting for an official announcement and clearer details on the proposed NDC arrangement, including how party positions and tickets will be shared. Their expected defection marks another major twist in Nigeria’s pre election political calculations as opposition figures reposition themselves ahead of 2027.
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