Abuja: Vice-Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, has articulated his rationale for joining Mr. Peter Obi as a running mate in the 2027 election, emphasizing national balance, equity, and democratic change as key factors.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Kwankwaso elaborated on this decision during an interview in Abuja, citing his experiences from the 2023 election as instrumental in understanding Obi better. He expressed confidence that their partnership is in the best interest of the nation. Kwankwaso, who previously served as Kano State governor, highlighted the importance of allowing the South to retain the presidency for another term following former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure.
Kwankwaso recalled the 2023 election attempt to collaborate with Obi, admitting that his understanding of Obi was limited at the time. However, over the past four years, he has come to recognize Obi as a compatible partner. The decision was supported by consultations with the Kwankwasiyya Movement, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) supporters, and the Obidient Movement, who collectively endorsed a balanced ticket to attract support from both Northern and Southern regions.
Kwankwaso also addressed the pressing security challenges, declining agricultural productivity, and deteriorating infrastructure in Nigeria, which further solidified his commitment to a political arrangement fostering democratic change. He pointed out that economic hardship has severely impacted farmers, especially in Northern Nigeria, making agricultural production increasingly difficult.
Reflecting on infrastructure, Kwankwaso noted widespread dilapidation across the country, with some exceptions like Lagos. He stressed that the current situation demands the kind of democratic change Nigerians sought in 2015, and the need for such change is now even more pressing. The Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, he stated, promises regional balance, competence, and credibility.
Kwankwaso clarified that accepting the vice-presidential role is not a step backward, despite his extensive political experience, which includes roles as deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, governor, minister, and senator. He emphasized that public office should be seen as an opportunity to serve, irrespective of the position held.
He highlighted an agreement with Obi for the South to produce the president for one term, after which the political arrangement would shift to the North. Kwankwaso cited historical examples of leaders who served in positions below their potential, emphasizing the importance of serving at different levels of government.
Kwankwaso dismissed claims by political opponents that his engagements with other parties were contingent on securing top positions, clarifying that discussions with President Bola Tinubu after the 2023 election focused on collaboration rather than abandoning NNPP.
He expressed confidence in the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance, underscoring Obi’s commitment to fairness, justice, and national unity. Kwankwaso assured that the North would not be disadvantaged, with the one-term understanding crucial in winning his supporters’ trust. He was confident that Obi would respect this agreement and allow him to function effectively in governance.
Kwankwaso emphasized the alliance’s focus on competence in appointing ministers and officials, with power shared according to national needs rather than political patronage. He advocated for technocrats, professionals, and experienced politicians to address Nigeria’s complex challenges effectively.