Rabiu Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and former governor of Kano State, has sparked widespread reactions after hosting the party's candidates from Kogi State at his residence in Abuja. This meeting occurs amid reports of internal strife within the NDC, particularly concerning the sidelining of Kwankwaso's loyalists in Kano.
Kwankwaso, who also served as the NDC's presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, announced the meeting on his social media platforms. He stated that the gathering involved robust deliberations on the way forward and concrete strategies for collective victory in the upcoming 2027 elections. The former governor emphasized the importance of unity and strategic planning as the party prepares for the next electoral cycle.
Background of the Internal Crisis
The meeting comes at a time when tensions are high within the NDC. Reports indicate that Kwankwaso has been pushing for his preferred candidates, who emerged victorious in the party's primaries, to retain their tickets on the final list of NDC candidates. There have been allegations that the leadership of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, which Kwankwaso leads, is being marginalized by older party members in Kano State. Earlier reports suggested that Kwankwaso had threatened to leave the NDC if his candidates were not included in the final list, a claim that the Kwankwasiyya Movement has denied.
Reactions from Nigerians
The announcement of the meeting has generated a flurry of comments from Nigerians on social media. Many praised Kwankwaso for his proactive engagement, while others urged him to build stronger party structures across all 36 states.
- Godfrey Okiki Joseph advised Kwankwaso to ensure the NDC has structures in all states: "Weldon sir, but you must prove to us that NDC have their structures in all 36 States. If you don't want to be ripped off by APC, start building your structure."
- Organised Thoughts commended Kwankwaso's leadership: "Kwakwanso na man. He's taken over the party just as he took over the NNPP, so we even thought he owned it. That's a leader. He is seriously working towards his ambition to be president. I really respect him. Obi, as usual, has faded, so people will do the dirty work for him. Very weak."
- Omo Ologo stated that Kwankwaso and Senator Seriake Dickson own the NDC: "No serious NDC party member wants to associate with Obi and his supporters. Kwankwaso and Seriake own the NDC."
- Chidi Nwammiri praised the former governor: "This is the kind of proactive engagement Nigeria needs. A productive meeting focused on concrete strategies rather than just politics. Kogi State will surely benefit from this synergy. More strength to you."
- EdwardIyare lauded Kwankwaso's strategic approach: "Amazing strategic workings. Graduate building of the house from a strong foundation upwards, ignoring the naysayers and speculators. Kudos."
Kwankwaso and Obi's Alliance
In related news, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, has declared Kwankwaso as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election. This announcement came shortly after Obi was endorsed and nominated as the NDC's presidential candidate. Senator Seriake Dickson, the national leader and founder of the NDC, confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday, May 30.
The alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso is seen as a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections. However, the internal challenges within the NDC, particularly in Kano State, remain a significant hurdle that the party must address to present a united front.
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes are on Kwankwaso and the NDC to see how they navigate these internal dynamics and build a strong coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in the next general election.
