The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially stated it is unaware of any formalised political alliance between its prominent member, Peter Obi, and the former governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections. This clarification comes amidst widespread reports of a potential coalition being brokered by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
ADC's Stance on the Proposed Coalition
In a statement addressing the swirling rumours, the ADC's spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, acknowledged that political discussions are commonplace but stressed that the party has no formal knowledge of a solidified pact between the two political figures. Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate in the 2023 election, officially joined the ADC in December 2025. Meanwhile, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who contested under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and placed fourth in the same election, is reportedly considering a move to the ADC.
Abdullahi was quoted as saying, "Kwankwaso is yet to join the ADC, but we are more than willing to have him with us. Obi is also a great politician and an asset to the party. However, whatever discussions they are having are outside the party." This statement underscores the party's position that while it is open to welcoming strong leaders, any current negotiations are occurring independently of the ADC's formal structures.
Obasanjo's Reported Role and Political Calculations
Credible sources indicate that former President Olusegun Obasanjo has taken an active role in initiating talks for an Obi-Kwankwaso alliance. The objective is reportedly to create a formidable front to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 polls. A top source within the ADC further revealed that Obasanjo has been facilitating connections between Peter Obi and influential northern power brokers to solidify the potential partnership's national appeal.
The 2023 election results, where Obi came third and Kwankwaso fourth, demonstrated the significant individual followings of both men. A merger of their support bases—the Obidient and Kwankwasiyya movements—is seen by many analysts as a strategy to bridge Nigeria's traditional political divides.
Analysts See a Potential Game-Changer for 2027
Political commentators have weighed in on the seismic implications such an alliance could have. Public analyst Kalu Okoronkwo described the potential coalition as a convergence of "civic cultures; young, energised, ideologically driven, and impatient against transactional politics." He argued that this combination could dissolve entrenched fault lines of North versus South and Christian versus Muslim, creating a truly national coalition.
The proposed ticket is viewed as promising a blend of fiscal responsibility and social impact, alongside a commitment to inclusive governance. Furthermore, an ADC chieftain, Sylvester Edet Okon, has already expressed strong support for Peter Obi, urging former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside for him, citing the principle of rotational presidency favouring the South.
As the political landscape for 2027 begins to take shape, the possibility of Kwankwaso defecting to the ADC and forming a strategic alliance with Peter Obi remains one of the most closely watched developments. While the ADC maintains it is not formally involved, its open-door policy towards Kwankwaso suggests significant realignments could be on the horizon, potentially altering the dynamics of the next presidential race.
