…As power brokers plot major challenge to Tinubu
Key political heavyweights within and around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are intensifying behind-the-scenes consultations over a possible Peter Obi–Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso presidential ticket, aimed at unseating the incumbent APC-led administration, sources have revealed.
According to multiple insiders familiar with the talks, the emerging equation is being shaped by a mix of domestic political calculations and perceived international considerations. Central to these deliberations is a shifting diplomatic climate in the United States, where President Donald Trump has amplified rhetoric alleging a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
Local stakeholders, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna, have dismissed such claims as misleading and dangerous. Nonetheless, sources say tension between Washington and the Tinubu administration has persisted, feeding into opposition strategy.
ADC insiders suggest party strategists believe influential blocs in the United States may be inclined toward a Christian presidential candidate in Nigeria’s next election. This outlook is reportedly influenced by President Trump’s posture and that of his conservative allies, who have indicated a desire to reassess partnerships following allegations of religious persecution.
Recent actions by the Trump administration have reinforced these concerns, including Nigeria’s redesignation as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act, targeted visa restrictions on Nigerians linked to alleged anti-Christian violence, and repeated threats of forceful military responses to militant attacks in parts of northern Nigeria.
“In the worst-case scenario, what American lobbyists may tolerate is a Muslim–Christian ticket, but certainly not another Muslim–Muslim combination”, a source involved in the discussions said on condition of anonymity.
Further findings indicate that former President Olusegun Obasanjo is playing a quiet but pivotal role in advancing the alliance. The elder statesman is said to be engaging political actors across party lines, as well as civil society leaders, to build consensus around a broad-based ticket. “Obasanjo believes Nigeria needs a balanced, inclusive ticket to stabilise the country and reset its democratic direction”, another source disclosed.
Proponents of the proposed ticket point to the complementary strengths of both figures: Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, recently joined the ADC after extensive consultations. Supporters argue he fits the narrative of fiscal discipline and balanced leadership.
Also, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor and leader of the ‘Kwankwasiyya movement’, is viewed as a key northern mobiliser with influence across the North-West and North-Central regions.
Although the ADC has yet to adopt an official position, the party is increasingly seen as a new hub for opposition forces disenchanted with both the ruling APC and a divided Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP).
Insiders say that while former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar remains a factor, the coming months will be decisive in determining whether the Obi–Kwankwaso option solidifies into a formal challenge.
Efforts to obtain comments from spokespersons for Obi and Kwankwaso were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
