2027: Obi, Kwankwaso camps deny campaign council rift

The presidential campaigns of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso's camps have denied rumors of a power struggle over the composition of the party's 2027 presidential campaign council. The denial comes as claims emerged that party leaders and loyalists from the two camps were competing for influential positions in the council before the August 19 start of presidential and National Assembly campaigns.

Sources within both camps confirmed the situation to The PUNCH, but the Kwankwaso spokesman, Habibu Muhammed, dismissed the reports as mere speculation. He stated that consultations are ongoing among the party, the presidential candidate and other stakeholders, with no power tussle or infighting occurring. Muhammed emphasized that the party, presidential aspirant, and stakeholders are working together to create a strong and reliable campaign team.

The Kwankwaso image maker also mentioned the emergence of several support groups within the party, urging coordination to prevent confusion. The NDC Lagos Central senatorial candidate and Kwankwaso spokesman, Ladipo Johnson, questioned the agitations over an unannounced list and noted that party councils and campaigns are run differently.

Both Muhammed and Johnson dismissed any internal fighting within the NDC, stating that the party is working to create a credible campaign council that will lead the party to success. The Obidient Movement's Dr Yunusa Tanko cautioned that the campaign council should be viewed as a platform for service rather than personal interests.