Kwankwaso Hosts NDC Leaders in Abuja as 2027 Talks Gather Pace

Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor, on Monday received leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) at his Abuja residence, in a meeting that adds to growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.

Among those at the meeting was Mohammed Bakin, the NDC’s National Vice Chairman (North-West). Sources within the Kwankwasiyya movement said the NDC delegation urged Kwankwaso to join the party as discussions around opposition alliances intensify.

The meeting comes amid speculation over a possible political partnership involving Kwankwaso and Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate. Reports of coalition talks have gained traction in recent weeks, while supporters of both politicians last week launched the “OK Movement,” aimed at mobilising support for the two figures.

The developments also unfold against uncertainty within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where an internal leadership dispute continues to raise questions over the party’s readiness for the next election cycle. On April 22, the Supreme Court reserved judgment in an appeal filed by the David Mark-led faction in a case brought by factional chairman Nafiu Bala.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set May 30, 2026, as the deadline for political parties to submit membership registers and nominate candidates for the 2027 elections.

Opposition parties have pushed back against the timeline, calling for an extension of party primaries to the end of July. Parties making the demand include the ADC, a Peoples Democratic Party faction led by Kabiru Turaki, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

The opposition leaders argue the current electoral timetable could limit their preparations and weaken their participation in the 2027 contest.