Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, has stated that his party is open to forming alliances with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, or any other prominent politician ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kwankwaso, who recently celebrated his 69th birthday, expressed that his party was willing to collaborate with other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), in anticipation of what he described as a challenging general election in 2027.
In September, Kwankwaso announced that the NNPP would consider joining the APC, but only if such a partnership would bring tangible advantages for the party.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, emphasised that the NNPP is prepared to work with any party that aligns with its principles, particularly the welfare of ordinary citizens.
“If you propose that we join the APC, you must clarify what the NNPP would gain from it. We have gubernatorial candidates in every state and a robust structure nationwide. What will you offer them if we decide to join?” Kwankwaso asserted while hosting Buhari Bakwana, a former political adviser to ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, along with APC members from the 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State, at his residence on Miller Road in Kano.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has reportedly met with the opposition figure over the past two years, recently referred to Kwankwaso as a friend within the progressive movement.
However, in his conversation with the BBC, Kwankwaso reiterated that any alliance with political parties or individuals must be founded on shared values that will enhance Nigerians’ quality of life.
He remarked, “We’re open to anyone, whether the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If satisfied with their competence, we will join forces to succeed. What we seek are capable leaders with integrity.
The essential factor is that whoever we ally with, be it the APC or another party, must be dedicated to the needs of Nigerians. We will not continue with them if they fail to meet our expectations.
“We are advocating for the common people to benefit, for the masses to be free, for the youth to receive education, and for security to be enhanced. Our citizens are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, parts of Kaduna, and other states. The victims are ordinary people, while the elites have fled to Abuja, where they live in luxury. Some of them, including members of the House of Representatives, senators, and ministers, seem only concerned with enriching themselves, acquiring large houses, and flaunting expensive cars. They are appointed to positions and behave as if they are untouchable, but I am confident Allah will hold them accountable.”
Kwankwaso contended that the upcoming general elections 2027 would be fiercely contested and much more demanding, as Nigerians are now more engaged, concerned, and better informed.
“I believe the 2027 elections will be significantly tougher. Unlike in the past, people are now more involved and concerned. Everyone is searching for a way out due to the country’s current state. Thanks to radio and social media, the masses are now informed. Everyone strives to secure a better future for themselves, their families, and their loved ones.
“No one will come on election day asking for money to cast their votes this time. You might witness new developments; things that have never occurred before in Nigeria’s electoral history.”
