Obi, Kwankwaso switch parties ahead of Nigeria poll
Two major opposition figures in Nigeria have switched political parties in a significant realignment ahead of next year’s presidential election. Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, who placed third and fourth respectively in the 2023 election, have both joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Their move has raised the possibility of a joint ticket to challenge President Bola Tinubu. The two politicians were previously members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who finished second in the last presidential race. While some observers view the latest shift as a sign of fragmentation within the opposition, supporters argue it could create a more focused political platform. Both Obi and Kwankwaso are former state governors with strong grassroots networks. Obi enjoys significant backing among younger voters, particularly in southern Nigeria, while Kwankwaso retains considerable influence in the north through […]