Obi Unveils Kwankwaso As Running Mate For 2027
By Wellington Jopelo
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has formally announced former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.
Obi made the announcement shortly after emerging as the party’s presidential candidate during the NDC convention held in Abuja. The move brings together two of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition figures ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested election.
Speaking after his nomination, Obi described Kwankwaso as a key partner in his vision for Nigeria and promised that the office of the Vice President would play a meaningful role in governance if they win the election.
According to Obi, his administration would depart from the tradition where vice presidents are often seen as occupying largely ceremonial positions. He said Kwankwaso would be an active participant in decision-making and governance rather than what he described as a “spare tyre.”
The former Anambra State governor used the occasion to outline his plans for the country, promising reforms in security, healthcare, education, agriculture, power supply, job creation and economic management. He argued that Nigeria is facing serious challenges that require urgent action and accountable leadership.
Obi expressed concern over rising insecurity, economic hardship and declining public confidence in government institutions, insisting that national unity and good governance would remain at the centre of his administration’s agenda.
The alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso has been one of the most closely watched political developments ahead of the 2027 elections. Both men contested the 2023 presidential election separately and built strong support bases in different parts of the country.
Political analysts believe the partnership could significantly reshape the opposition landscape by combining Obi’s popularity in parts of the South and among young voters with Kwankwaso’s influence in Kano and across sections of Northern Nigeria.
Kwankwaso, who previously served as governor of Kano State and remains a leading figure in the Kwankwasiyya political movement, said he accepted the alliance after consultations with political associates and northern stakeholders who viewed Obi as a credible partner for the 2027 race.
The emergence of the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is expected to intensify political calculations among opposition parties and the ruling APC as preparations for the next general election gather momentum.
With the 2027 contest gradually taking shape, attention is now turning to how the new alliance will mobilise support across the country and challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is widely expected to seek a second term in office.