Kwankwaso Considers ADC Move as Talks With Atiku Obi El-Rufai Gain Momentum

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As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, former Kano State Governor and NNPP national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is reportedly weighing the option of joining forces with opposition heavyweights including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) banner.

This development comes amid increasing defections in Kano State, notably the anticipated departure of Governor Abba Yusuf and several members of the Kano State House of Assembly to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Observers note that Kwankwaso’s political machinery in the state faces internal strain, prompting him to quietly engage with the ADC and trusted figures within the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Insiders suggest that these discussions are part of a broader strategy by opposition leaders to consolidate forces capable of mounting a credible challenge to the APC in 2027. Meanwhile, Governor Yusuf’s possible defection to the APC, strongly resisted by Kwankwaso, has further deepened divisions within the Kwankwasiyya camp.

Reports indicate that a ceremony to formalize Yusuf’s move may take place in Abuja, with top APC figures including Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, former Kano governor Abdullahi Ganduje, and state party chairman Abdullahi Abbas expected to attend.

Political analysts contend that if negotiations among Kwankwaso, Atiku, and Obi succeed, the alliance could reshape Nigeria’s opposition landscape and recalibrate the electoral contest ahead of 2027. In the 2023 presidential election, Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso finished second, third, and fourth respectively, cementing their positions as key opposition figures.

Despite the APC’s current dominance, controlling 28 state governorships, opposition leaders are reportedly strategizing to leverage public dissatisfaction in an attempt to challenge the ruling party’s hold on power. Peter Obi has already formalized his defection to the ADC, joining a growing cadre of influential figures including David Mark, Aminu Tambuwal, Emeka Ihedioha, Rauf Aregbesola, Rotimi Amaechi, Abubakar Malami, and Nasir El-Rufai.

ADC insiders, including party chieftain Ladan Salihu, described Obi’s entry as a game-changer, elevating the party’s profile as a serious contender in the opposition space.

Meanwhile, the APC has continued to consolidate influence, with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang reportedly joining the ruling party, further strengthening its position. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while acknowledging the importance of opposition unity, has stated that resolving internal leadership challenges remains its immediate priority.