Former Kano State governor and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is reportedly considering a move to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as opposition politicians intensify negotiations and reposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Local media reports in Kano indicate that Kwankwaso is engaged in discussions with leaders of the ADC over a possible alliance that could also involve former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The talks are said to be part of broader efforts to forge a united opposition front capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election cycle.
The reported negotiations come amid growing signs that significant elements of Kwankwaso’s political base in Kano State are drifting towards the APC. Observers say the situation has raised concerns within the NNPP and the wider Kwankwasiyya movement, the influential political structure built by Kwankwaso over the years.
Sources suggest that the potential move to the ADC may involve key members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, whose loyalty has been central to Kwankwaso’s political strength in Kano and parts of the North. However, the developments have reportedly created tension within the camp, especially as Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, a close ally of Kwankwaso and a product of the Kwankwasiyya political structure, is widely expected to defect to the APC.
The possibility of Governor Yusuf’s defection is believed to have deepened internal divisions, prompting strategic recalculations among Kwankwaso’s supporters and allies. Analysts say a shift to the ADC could offer Kwankwaso a fresh platform and a central role in ongoing opposition realignment efforts ahead of 2027.
Speaking, a former NNPP chieftain, Habib Hisham, who recently joined the ADC, confirmed that discussions were ongoing and that the party was open to receiving Kwankwaso in Kano State. According to Hisham, such a development would significantly alter the political landscape and influence the outcome of the next general elections.
“I know our party leaders are working on bringing Kwankwaso to join the ADC. We will be happy to welcome him,” Hisham said. He added that an alliance involving Kwankwaso, Atiku and Obi would represent a major force capable of reshaping national politics.
While neither Kwankwaso nor the ADC leadership has officially confirmed the talks, political watchers believe the reported negotiations reflect growing dissatisfaction within opposition ranks and a desire to consolidate strength ahead of 2027. If realised, the move could mark a major turning point in Kano politics and have far-reaching implications for opposition unity at the national level.
