Obi ticket uncertainty slows Kwankwaso’s planned move to ADC

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has delayed plans to leave the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as talks continue over whether Peter Obi would secure the party’s presidential ticket for 2027, sources familiar with the discussions say.

Kwankwaso, a former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiya Movement, has been in contact with ADC figures for months. However, insiders in both camps say his decision to defect is tied to assurances around a proposed Obi–Kwankwaso joint ticket under the ADC platform.

People involved in the negotiations said a three-member ADC committee set up to engage prospective entrants met recently in Abuja with representatives appointed by Kwankwaso. No agreement was reached, but further talks are expected within days.

An ADC official confirmed the meeting and said discussions were ongoing. “We are engaging and hope to reach a strong conclusion soon. Some issues remain unresolved,” the official said.

A source within Kwankwaso’s circle said the former governor was being advised by senior northern political figures and former President Olusegun Obasanjo to proceed cautiously. According to the source, they urged Kwankwaso not to commit to the ADC without clarity that Obi would emerge as the party’s presidential candidate.

The source added that Kwankwaso’s potential entry into the ADC was viewed as a factor that could influence the party’s internal calculations ahead of its primaries. There are also concerns within his camp that Obi could face a difficult primary contest and be pressured into accepting a vice-presidential slot if he loses.

Obi and Kwankwaso’s supporters are said to have held separate consultations with national political leaders in recent weeks to build backing for the former Anambra governor’s presidential ambition.

According to the source, broader consultations are still underway and may determine the timing of any defection. “Until those talks are concluded, nothing decisive will happen,” the person said.

Both sides confirmed that their committees would reconvene soon.

ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi said he was not aware of the talks. “I am not part of any committee speaking with Kwankwaso,” he said, while describing him as a significant political figure.

NNPP spokesperson Ladipo Johnson also declined comment, saying he had no information on the matter.