According to seasoned writer and former presidential adviser Reuben Abati, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) might drastically alter the opposition landscape prior to the next elections in 2027.
Speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, Abati pointed out that Kwankwaso’s action, together with that of his New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) supporters, has fortified the ADC and established it as a coalition platform for influential opposition individuals.
Along with Rivers and Lagos states, Abati highlighted the strategic significance of Kano State in presidential elections, pointing out its 44 local government areas and sizable voter base, characterizing it as a crucial battleground.
He continued by saying that Kwankwaso, who is thought to be a powerful political force in Kano, might have a big impact on the 2027 race’s dynamics after his defection.
But the analyst questioned the ADC’s internal dynamics, especially in relation to the party’s presidential ticket.
He asked whether Kwankwaso will win the party’s ticket, become a running mate, or be a part of a larger political arrangement, pointing out that Kwankwaso has long declared his desire to become president.
Abati also brought up the persistent rumors that Kwankwaso and Obi would form an alliance, raising concerns about the potential impact on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s standing in the party.
“Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso and his NNPP and Kwankwansiya supporters have now moved to the ADC,” he declared.
As a result of that movement, the ADC has become stronger and currently consists of a number of prominent opposition personalities. There’s Peter Obi. You have Amaechi Rotimi. You also have Atiku Abubakar.
Additionally, as I’ve already mentioned on this platform, Kano is a crucial platform in Nigerian elections. 44 local government councils are what you are referring to. You are discussing a significant percentage of voters.
If you want to be president of this country, you have to win certain states. Lagos, Rivers, and Kano are among them.
“And now the most well-known politician in Kano State is joining the ADC.”
He was meant to have joined the APC. We were informed that discussions took place, but before he did, his godson, the state governor, joined the APC.
In 2027, Kano State will be a key theater of conflict. But Dr. Kwankwaso has consistently stated that his goal is to become Nigeria’s president.
Would they now present the ticket to him? Will he end up running alongside someone else? I’ve been hearing people refer to him as “PitaKwa” 2027, implying that he will be ADC running partner Peter Obi. Will that function?
Will that materialize? What does that mean for Waziri Adamawa? Will Atiku Abubakar, our former vice president, likewise just stand by and let “Pitakwa” into the ADC?
“There will be a lot of drama, either from the politicians themselves or from the entertainment, and we’re just seeing the early stages of it.”
