As the political landscape intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections, both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are vying for the crucial 5.7 million votes from Kano State.
Central to this scenario is former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who leads the influential Kwankwasiyya Movement.
Party insiders agree that securing Kano’s votes and capitalizing on Kwankwaso’s popularity will be vital for the success of the upcoming election. Kwankwaso ran for president in 2023 as a candidate for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and finished fourth with nearly 1.5 million votes, most of which came from Kano, where he surpassed even the ruling APC.
With the opposition’s main parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, struggling with internal issues, the APC and President Bola Tinubu appear to have an edge for 2027. However, the rise of the ADC coalition, which includes notable figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-governor Nasir El-Rufai, may change the electoral dynamics as they attract more political leaders nationwide.
As shifts occur in the political landscape approaching the next elections, Kwankwaso’s next steps could significantly influence outcomes in the competitive northern region. Both APC and ADC officials have confirmed their efforts to gain Kwankwaso’s support in order to harness the formidable voter base in Kano.
Insiders from the NNPP, who wished to remain anonymous due to their sensitivity, reported that both parties have engaged in multiple discussions with Kwankwaso and other prominent NNPP members regarding possible alliances that could affect Tinubu’s re-election bid. Kwankwaso has yet to reveal his intentions, adding to the political suspense.
Leaders from both the APC and ADC have emphasized the importance of Kwankwaso’s allegiance; ADC leader Babachir Lawal referred to him as a significant asset, noting that his support would greatly benefit their movement. He indicated that efforts are ongoing to bring Kwankwaso into the ADC, underlining his status as a key political figure.
In February, Kwankwaso met with ADC’s Interim National Secretary Aregbesola in Lagos, which was seen as part of the coalition’s strategy leading up to the elections. Although the details of their discussions remain undisclosed, sources suggest they focused on national political issues.
Buba Galadima, a close associate of Kwankwaso, acknowledged that both the APC and ADC have been courting him but stressed that Kwankwaso remains strategic and has not made any commitments yet. Observers note that recent changes in APC leadership, such as the resignation of former Kano governor Abdullahi Ganduje as National Chairman, are seen as attempts to attract Kwankwaso to the APC.
An anonymous senior NNPP member revealed that the APC has been in discussions with Kwankwaso while the ADC has also sought a potential alliance with him. There is a belief that Kwankwaso’s decision will be public soon, aligning the party’s support structures accordingly.
APC National Vice Chairman Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu expressed confidence that Kwankwaso recognizes the value of joining the APC rather than the ADC, dismissing the latter as a desperate gathering without serious potential. He highlighted Kwankwaso’s significant political influence and the advantages of aligning with the ruling party.
