A former national chairman of the defunct Alliance National Party (ANP), Asiwaju Moshood Shittu, has called on opposition parties planning a merger ahead of the 2027 presidential election to rally behind former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as their sole candidate.
Speaking at a press conference, Shittu, who also served as the director-general (North) of Kwankwaso’s 2023 presidential campaign under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), insisted that the former defence minister is the only credible opposition figure capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the next election.
He highlighted Kwankwaso’s extensive experience in governance, spanning legislative, executive, and diplomatic roles, as well as his strong grassroots following, as key reasons why he should lead any opposition alliance.
“Kwankwaso has paid his dues in politics and governance. From his time as Deputy Speaker in the Third Republic to his tenure as Kano State Governor, Defence Minister, Special Envoy, and NDDC Board Member, his track record is unmatched,” Shittu said.
He argued that other potential candidates, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, do not possess the same level of credibility, competence, and experience needed to unseat the incumbent president.
Shittu urged opposition leaders to engage Kwankwaso and convince him to take up the challenge, warning that failure to prioritise credibility in selecting a candidate could spell doom for the planned merger.
“This is the time to act in order to save our nation. Let us not throw away credibility, value, and competence. If the opposition truly wants to win, Kwankwaso is the man to support,” he added.
The call comes amid ongoing discussions among opposition parties on forming a coalition to challenge President Tinubu in 2027.
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