Kwankwaso Joins ADC, Forging New Opposition Alliance with Atiku and Obi
In a significant political development, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano state and ex-presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples' Party (NNPP), has officially teamed up with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other prominent opposition figures by joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This move signals a major realignment in Nigeria's political landscape as parties gear up for the 2027 general elections.
Official Membership and Key Attendees
Kwankwaso, who previously served as a one-term Minister of Defence, registered with the ADC and received his membership card at Gidan Kwankwasiyya on Miller Road in Bompai, Kano, on Monday, March 30, 2026. The event was attended by high-profile political leaders, including the party's national chairman and former Senate President David Mark, ex-governors Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto and Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers, Peter Obi—the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party—Senator Dino Melaye, and the former national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Resignation from NNPP and Strategic Realignment
Earlier, Kwankwaso announced his resignation from the NNPP, citing the necessity for political alignment and realignment in preparation for the upcoming 2027 elections. This decision underscores the shifting dynamics within opposition circles, as leaders seek to consolidate forces to challenge the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu.
The formation of this new alliance, which brings together influential figures from various regions and political backgrounds, is expected to intensify the political competition ahead of the next electoral cycle. Observers note that this coalition could pose fresh challenges for Tinubu's government, as it unites key opposition voices under a common platform.
