By Peace Erewunmi

Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has explained his decision to contest as the vice-presidential candidate alongside Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kwankwaso, who is running with Obi on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said their partnership was driven by a shared desire to adopt a different approach to governance and address Nigeria’s major challenges.

In a statement released on Thursday, Kwankwaso said Nigeria was facing serious challenges, including rising food prices, unemployment, high business costs and insecurity.

He said the country needed urgent improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure and institutional reforms, while public resources must be managed with greater transparency and accountability.

Explaining his decision to work with Obi, the former Kano governor said the partnership was not based on regional, religious or personal considerations.

According to him, the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket is focused on accountable governance, economic opportunities and inclusiveness.

Kwankwaso also said the proposed administration would seek to create an environment where young Nigerians could build successful futures at home and where citizens would have equal opportunities to prosper.

He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, women, workers, farmers, entrepreneurs and professionals, to participate actively in the 2027 political process.

The NDC vice-presidential candidate further called for issue-based campaigns, urging politicians to avoid divisive rhetoric and instead focus on accountability, competence and results.

The partnership between Obi and Kwankwaso brings together two prominent opposition figures with significant political followings in different parts of the country. Their alliance has consequently generated debate over its chances against President Bola Tinubu and other opposition contenders in the 2027 presidential election.

Reacting to the report, one commenter dismissed the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, stating: “You are telling lies. Your combination cannot win the election.”

The comment represents an individual political opinion and does not establish the electoral prospects of the NDC ticket.

Kwankwaso, however, has urged supporters to remain focused on the issues affecting Nigerians and to campaign peacefully and responsibly ahead of the 2027 election.