Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has confirmed the defection of a group of All Progressives Congress (APC) members from Madobi Local Government Area in Kano State. The former Kano governor received the defectors personally and welcomed them into the NDC, pledging that they would be assigned fair and comfortable positions within the party.
In a post on his official X account on Sunday, August 2, 2026, Kwankwaso expressed elation at the development, describing the NDC as a party that “continues to grow stronger, free from major distractions.” The announcement signals the party’s expanding reach in Kano, a state considered critical to any serious presidential bid in Nigeria.
Although Kwankwaso did not specify the number of defectors or name any of the individuals who left the APC, the move is seen as part of the NDC’s broader strategy to consolidate support in the North-West region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reactions as APC Members Defect to NDC
The post drew a wave of reactions from supporters and political observers across the country. @nnamdyy wrote: “Whatever the result is in 2027, in 2031 Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has my full support and vote. I wish Obi had half of your doggedness, but no wahala sha, we still love him. Nigeria will be OK!” Another user, @TheDotWoman, praised Kwankwaso for siding with the masses: “Sir, Nigerians are so proud of you. Thank you for dumping politics and deciding to take a stand with the Nigerian masses. Come 2027, a new Nigeria that works for all Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion will be born. God bless Obi-Kwankwaso! God bless Nigeria.”
Other commenters focused on the NDC’s momentum. @ObiChimaco22557 wrote: “The greatest politician ever, Kwankwaso has demonstrated huge courage elevating the NDC within a short period of time contributing massively to growth of the party nationwide.” @DentistNax added: “Resilience means moving out of your comfort zone to challenge your obstacles and confronting your enemies until you completely defeat them, not merely enduring their oppression. Kwankwaso is the combination of fearlessness, firmness, compassion and stubbornness.”
Not all observers were convinced of the broader impact. @Omo_Adesawe cautioned: “Musa Kwankwaso should not forget that only Kano can't win him and Obi the presidential election, but I like that he's working his way down to the 2031 race.”
Kwankwaso, Obi, and the 2027 Alliance
The NDC’s growing strength comes amid broader discussions about opposition collaboration for the 2027 presidential election. Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has predicted that Peter Obi and Kwankwaso would be a formidable pair for the ballot. Lawal made the prediction during a televised interview, assigning specific winning chances to each major contender. He also weighed in on Atiku Abubakar’s prospects following his public fallout with the former vice president.
Kwankwaso, for his part, has continued to defend the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance and pushed back against claims that Peter Obi lacks northern support. He also expressed surprise that President Bola Tinubu chose to retain a same-faith ticket for the 2027 presidential election, describing the Muslim-Muslim arrangement as a significant factor that could shape voter behaviour.
What the Defections Mean for NDC’s Electoral Ambitions
The latest defection in Madobi LGA is part of a series of arrivals into the NDC as the party builds its structures nationwide. Kwankwaso’s promise of “fair and comfortable positions” is likely intended to reassure new members that joining the NDC will not be a political dead end. The ability to attract APC defectors in a state like Kano could help the NDC expand its grassroots presence.
Observers note that the NDC’s strategy appears to be targeting aggrieved APC members who may be dissatisfied with the current administration. By positioning himself as a leader willing to welcome defectors with open arms, Kwankwaso is seeking to broaden the party’s appeal beyond its existing base.
With the 2027 election cycle heating up, the NDC is clearly executing a deliberate strategy of growth. As Kwankwaso put it, the party is “growing stronger, free from major distractions.” Whether this translates into electoral victory remains to be seen, but the influx of APC defectors is an early sign of shifting political alignments in Kano and beyond.
