2027: Real reason I decided to work with Peter Obi – Kwankwaso

Rabiu Kwankwaso has described his political alliance with Peter Obi as a strategic return to the historical partnership between the North and the South East, aimed at identifying honest and capable leadership for Nigeria.

Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has provided insight into his decision to form a political alliance with Peter Obi, the former Labour Party standard-bearer. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Monday, the former Kano State governor explained that the move signifies a return to the political traditions of the First and Second Republics. Kwankwaso noted that the North is revisiting the collaborative approach adopted by icons like Tafawa Balewa and Ahmadu Bello, as well as the working relationship former President Shehu Shagari maintained with South East leaders.

Addressing the motivation behind the partnership, Kwankwaso emphasized that the alliance is built on mutual respect and a shared vision for national progress. He characterized the people of the South East as long-standing friends of the North, asserting that his decision was the result of a deliberate search for a partner who possesses the integrity required to lead. “But for me, it wasn’t just because we are going to the South East. No, I looked around together with our leadership in the North to ask who we think is capable, who can come and work honestly with us so that we can move this country forward,” he stated.

The NNPP leader further revealed that after a thorough evaluation by northern stakeholders, Peter Obi emerged as the most suitable candidate to spearhead this unified front. Highlighting Obi’s track record and perceived sincerity, Kwankwaso expressed confidence in the synergy between their respective camps. He concluded by justifying the selection of the former Anambra State governor, saying, “And along the line, we realized that Peter Obi is at the forefront of it, and that’s why we all accepted to work together.”

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