A former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Rabiu Kwankwaso, says northern political leaders settled on Peter Obi as the most capable ally for the 2027 presidential election after a careful assessment of possible political partners.
Kwankwaso made the disclosure during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, where he explained the reasons behind the growing alliance between northern political blocs and Obi within the National Democratic Congress.
According to him, leaders in the North considered several options before deciding to work with Obi ahead of the 2027 general election.
He said Obi emerged as the preferred choice because of his perceived capacity and willingness to work with northern leaders to move the country forward.
Kwankwaso also dismissed speculations of a hidden rivalry between his political camp and Obi’s supporters, insisting that political partnerships could succeed if leaders avoided greed and focused on governance.
The former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party said his experience as deputy speaker of the House of Representatives and governor of Kano State showed that leaders and their deputies could work together peacefully.
He noted that he maintained a stable relationship with his deputy governor throughout his eight-year tenure in Kano and eventually handed over power to him.
Kwankwaso further linked the current alliance to historical political partnerships between northern and southeastern leaders, citing the working relationship between former Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and leaders of the NCNC during the First Republic.
He also referenced the alliance between former President Shehu Shagari and former Vice President Alex Ekwueme during the Second Republic.
According to him, the North and South-East have a history of political cooperation, adding that the current alliance seeks to strengthen national unity and fairness.
Kwankwaso said the decision to support Obi was not based solely on regional considerations but on competence and political strength.
The alliance between Kwankwaso and Obi has continued to attract attention ahead of the 2027 elections, with several politicians and political blocs reportedly aligning with the new coalition.
