APC Dismisses Kwankwaso’s INEC Comments Says Ex-Kano Governor Has Lost Touch with Politics

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A fresh political exchange has emerged in Kano State after the local chapter of the All Progressives Congress criticized statements made by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso regarding plans to closely observe the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Party officials within the APC described the remarks by the former Kano governor as unnecessary and confusing, arguing that the comments do not reflect the current political reality in Nigeria.

APC Questions Kwankwaso’s Relevance

Responding to the issue, the Kano State Public Relations Officer of the APC, Ahmad Aruwa, expressed strong skepticism about Kwankwaso’s political influence.

According to Aruwa, the former governor no longer holds the level of political leverage he once enjoyed and therefore should not be presenting himself as a central figure in discussions about the country’s electoral processes.

Doubts About His Position in the NNPP

The APC spokesperson further raised questions about Kwankwaso’s role within the New Nigeria Peoples Party. He argued that the politician is not currently contesting for any office and therefore lacks the authority to claim he is monitoring the electoral commission on behalf of a political group.

From the APC’s perspective, the statement appeared to create unnecessary speculation around INEC’s activities ahead of the next national elections.

Confidence in Electoral Institutions

Aruwa also used the opportunity to emphasize the ruling party’s confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system. He expressed optimism that INEC would continue to conduct credible elections and insisted that the APC trusts the commission’s ability to remain neutral.

He pointed to previous legal outcomes in election disputes as evidence that the electoral and judicial systems can function independently.

Support for President Tinubu’s Administration

While discussing preparations for the future political contest, the APC official praised the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the president’s approach to governance includes appointing qualified professionals to key positions.

According to Aruwa, this leadership style strengthens public institutions and enhances the credibility of democratic processes in the country.

Kwankwaso’s Earlier Statement

Kwankwaso had earlier made his remarks during the national convention of the NNPP held in Abuja. The gathering also saw the re-election of party executives led by Ahmed Ajuji.

Addressing delegates and representatives of INEC at the event, the former senator expressed appreciation to the electoral body while stressing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic practices.

In his remarks, he acknowledged the presence of INEC officials and congratulated the newly appointed chairman of the commission, Joash Amupitan, noting that the commission’s performance remains central to the success of Nigeria’s democracy.

APC Urges Public to Ignore the Claims

Despite Kwankwaso’s comments being framed as encouragement for electoral vigilance, the APC spokesperson insisted that such statements may be politically motivated.

Aruwa argued that attempts to question or cast doubt on the credibility of the electoral commission could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.

He therefore advised Nigerians to trust INEC’s professionalism while noting that the APC believes it is well positioned for the upcoming 2027 elections.

Commentary and Analysis

The disagreement between APC officials in Kano and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso highlights the intensifying political atmosphere as Nigeria gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections.

Political parties often begin positioning themselves years before elections, and public statements about electoral bodies can quickly become points of contention between rival groups.

Kwankwaso’s emphasis on vigilance reflects concerns shared by many political actors about maintaining transparency in the electoral process. Meanwhile, the APC’s response suggests a desire to defend the credibility of institutions while reinforcing confidence in the current administration.

Such exchanges are not uncommon in democratic systems, where debates about electoral fairness and political influence frequently shape public discourse long before voters head to the polls.