…Warns APC against ‘playing with Kano’
National leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has drawn a firm political battle line ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting he will only join any alliance or political party if offered either the presidential or vice-presidential ticket, while simultaneously warning the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against moves he says threaten Kano’s democratic will.
Speaking to supporters and party stakeholders in Kano on Saturday, the former Kano state governor declared that negotiations without clear agreement on leading the ticket were meaningless to him and the Kwankwasiyya movement. He said, “We are looking for a party, but they must agree to give me, Rabiu Kwankwaso, a presidential or vice-presidential ticket. Anything outside that is not negotiable”.
Kwankwaso contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the NNPP, finishing third behind President Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
Kwankwaso confirmed that political talks are ongoing ahead of 2027, but stressed that he would not accept a secondary role in any coalition.
While the NNPP remains open to mergers and alliances, he said any party seeking his support must be ready to make major concessions, including recognising his leadership position.
His comments come amid intense speculation over his next political move, with several parties reportedly courting him as early preparations for the 2027 election gather pace. Strong talks have linked him to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which has recently attracted prominent political figures such as former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi.
The presence of multiple heavyweight aspirants within the ADC has raised questions about how a consensus candidate would emerge, with Kwankwaso’s stance suggesting he is unwilling to be part of a crowded field without clear leadership of the ticket.
There are also reports of attempts by the ruling APC to woo Kwankwaso as part of efforts to strengthen President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s expected re-election bid. While he did not confirm direct talks with the APC, Kwankwaso made it clear that he would not join any ruling party arrangement without a guaranteed position at the top of the ticket.
At the same time, Kwankwaso issued a strong warning to the APC over alleged moves to lure Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf away from the NNPP, describing such efforts as an attempt to politically isolate Kano and undermine the will of its people.
“If you have about 30 governors across the country, why must you take the Kano State governor?” he asked. “Is he your personal property? He is the only one left for us in the Government House”.
Kwankwaso faulted those allegedly encouraging the governor to defect, insisting they should relinquish the mandate given by the people of Kano if they no longer believe in it. “Those instigating him to leave should tell him to drop the governorship for us and go. The governorship is not meant for only one person”, he stated.
Describing the unfolding political situation in Kano as “surprising” and “like a nightmare,” Kwankwaso said he had reached out to all relevant actors to urge restraint and dialogue in the interest of peace and development.
“At least this government has one year ahead. If we join hands, the people will benefit”, he said, lamenting internal conflicts that he said many supporters still do not fully understand.
He also rejected claims that the NNPP is a minor party, insisting that no political party currently matches its strength in Kano. “People say our party is small. In Kano, which party is bigger than NNPP?” he asked.
Kwankwaso framed the ongoing political struggle in Kano as a contest of values rather than mere party affiliation. Despite the tensions, he praised the patience and discipline of Kwankwasiyya supporters, noting that many have been emotionally and physically affected by the crisis.
Looking ahead to 2027, Kwankwaso reiterated that while he is open to alliances, such partnerships must be built on shared ideology and respect for his political standing. “What we are hoping for is to meet people with the same ideology — those who will agree that I am either Number One or umber Two on the train”, he said.
He concluded with a warning to the APC, noting that the party already controls nearly 30 of Nigeria’s 36 states. He said: “Yet they are still pressurising everyone to return. If you go back to Abuja and see them, tell them they are playing with Kano. They are underestimating us, and they should be very careful. Kano should be treated with caution”.
