Kwankwaso Suspends ADC Move Over Obi’s 2027 Presidential Ticket

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has suspended plans to move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over unresolved issues linked to Peter Obi’s expected role in the 2027 presidential race.

The NNPP leader is said to be waiting for clarity on whether Obi will be guaranteed the ADC presidential ticket ahead of the next general election. His decision is tied to ongoing talks on forming a united opposition platform.

Discussions between leaders of the ADC and Kwankwaso’s political structure have continued in Abuja. However, no final agreement has been reached. Key political interests involved in the talks are still weighing their options.

At the centre of the negotiations is a proposed alliance that could present Peter Obi as the presidential candidate, with Kwankwaso playing a strategic supporting role. The plan is believed to be aimed at building a strong coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027.

A meeting between representatives of both sides ended without a breakthrough. Another round of talks is expected soon to address unresolved concerns.

An ADC official involved in the process said:
“We’re closing in on Kwankwaso, and we will be happy to receive him.

“Our committee and his met a few days ago and they will meet next week to take, maybe, a strong decision and reach a strong conclusion. We’re still engaging, though there are some unresolved issues.”

Within Kwankwaso’s camp, there is growing caution over how the arrangement may eventually play out. Consultations are ongoing with senior political figures from the North and other influential stakeholders.

One insider said:
“Many things are playing out, and some northern leaders and Obasanjo are advising RMK (Kwankwaso) on his defection.

“As it is, it seems Kwankwaso is the bargaining strength for Peter Obi to get the presidential ticket in the ADC… Currently, ADC leaders are mounting pressure on RMK to join the party… The picture we are seeing from outside is that Obi was lured into the party, and we don’t want to fall into that trap.

“The game ahead is that Obi will participate in the ADC presidential primary, and after losing to Atiku, he will be persuaded to take the VP slot.”

The source added that the broader political objective is to keep power in the South for another four years beyond 2027.

He said:
“We are committed to seeing the South complete its eight years, which is only possible with Peter Obi’s presidency. People like Baba Ota (Obasanjo) also believe in that, and it is in that line that Kwankwaso can have a chance to contest the 2031 presidential election.

“As it stands, Kwankwaso is Obi’s only strong bargaining chip for the ADC presidential ticket.”

So far, no official statement has been issued by either the ADC or the NNPP on the stalled defection.