2027: Why I chose to run with Obi — Kwankwaso

Former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has revealed his decision to run on the same presidential ticket as Peter Obi for the 2027 elections, aiming to bring an alternative approach to governance. Kwankwaso announced his choice to work with Obi on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in a statement on Thursday, as political activities surrounding the 2027 elections gain momentum.

He emphasized that Nigeria had reached a critical juncture, citing soaring food and essential commodity prices, high unemployment, elevated business operating costs, and insecurity as major challenges that citizens face. Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to contemplate the nation's current state and the kind of country they desire to pass on to future generations, warning that insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and various forms of violence, continues to pose threats to communities, families, and livelihoods.

He stressed that farmers needed security to resume agricultural activities, children required safe schools, and every Nigerian deserved to live without fear. Beyond economic and security concerns, the former governor highlighted education, healthcare, infrastructure, and institutional reform as areas demanding immediate government intervention.

Kwankwaso further elaborated on his decision to collaborate with Obi, explaining that their partnership was based on a shared vision for the country, and not influenced by regional, religious, or personal factors. He emphasized that their goal was to ensure accountable governance, create economic opportunities, and promote inclusiveness.

The proposed partnership aimed to serve the people, reward hard work, offer young people prospects for success within their homeland, and provide equal opportunities for every citizen to thrive. Urging Nigerians, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and professionals, to actively engage in the political process, Kwankwaso called for issue-based campaigns and discouraged divisive politics, encouraging politicians and supporters to demand accountability and competence from public officeholders.

He described the 2027 election as an opportunity for Nigerians to shape the nation's future and encouraged supporters of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket to engage in peaceful and responsible campaigning.