Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano state, has publicly explained the reasoning behind his decision to align with former Anambra Governor Peter Obi on a joint presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections. In a message posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) page on Wednesday night, August 19, 2026, as the 2027 presidential campaign formally got underway, Kwankwaso said the partnership was shaped entirely by the state of the country rather than by personal or sectional interests.
Economic Hardship and Insecurity Drive the Alliance
Kwankwaso pointed to the burden of rising food and essential commodity prices on Nigerian families, alongside the inability of millions of young people to find meaningful work. He also cited the high operating costs battering businesses and the uncertain environment in which they operate. On security, he noted that terrorism, banditry and kidnapping continue to threaten communities across the country, preventing farmers from returning to their fields and stopping children from attending school without fear. He called for urgent investment in education and healthcare, stronger institutions and greater openness in how public funds are managed.
Kwankwaso was direct in stating that personal ambition played no role in his choice of partner. The former New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) presidential candidate wrote: "Our partnership is not about region, religion or personal ambition. It is about Nigeria." He asserted: "This is why I have chosen to work with His Excellency, Peter Obi, on the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket."
A Call for Voters to Back the NDC Ticket
The former governor said both he and Obi share a belief in a Nigeria where government genuinely serves its citizens, where hard work brings real rewards and where young people can build successful lives without leaving the country. He directed his appeal at a broad coalition of voters, including young Nigerians, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals, urging them to rally behind the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and shift the national conversation away from divisive politics towards issues that affect everyday Nigerians.
Kwankwaso also called on citizens to hold public officials to account by demanding competence and measurable results. He described the 2027 election as a genuine opportunity for Nigerians to choose a new direction for the country. "Together, we can build a stronger nation and Nigeria will be OK," he said.
Background to the Obi-Kwankwaso Ticket
Obi had resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on May 2, 2026, and was ratified as the NDC's presidential candidate on May 29, 2026. Kwankwaso's announcement of the partnership came as the 2027 presidential campaign formally began. The former Kano governor urged young Nigerians, women, workers and farmers to back the NDC ticket, calling on voters to demand accountability from public officials. Kwankwaso's full statement was posted on his X account, detailing the reasons for the alliance and his vision for the country.
