Former presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that is already generating strong political reactions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kwankwaso, who contested under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 elections, completed his registration at Gidan Kwankwasiyya in Kano, where he received his membership card. He later confirmed the move on his social media page, describing it as a “new dawn.”
The event attracted top political figures within the ADC, including David Mark, the party’s National Chairman, and Rauf Aregbesola, the National Secretary. Also present was Peter Obi, further fueling speculation about future political alliances.
Other notable politicians at the gathering included Aminu Tambuwal, Rotimi Amaechi, Dino Melaye, John Odigie-Oyegun, and Emeka Ihedioha.
Kwankwaso’s defection came shortly after he resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party, a party he founded and used to contest the 2023 presidential election, where he finished fourth. In his resignation letter, he stated that he needed a new political platform that would better position him to contribute to national development.
Although it is not yet clear if the ADC has promised him a presidential or vice-presidential ticket, party spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi said Kwankwaso joined without conditions and would be given a level playing field like other members.
Political analysts believe Kwankwaso’s entry into the ADC is a major boost for the opposition. His strong support base in Kano and the Kwankwasiyya movement could significantly strengthen the party’s chances in future elections.
The development has also revived discussions about a possible alliance between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 elections. The speculation grew after Obi visited Kwankwaso in Kano during the Eid celebrations, where he received a warm welcome from supporters.
Both politicians were presidential candidates in 2023 under the Labour Party Nigeria and NNPP respectively, and together they secured over 7.5 million votes. Observers say a joint ticket could pose a strong challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Supporters of the proposed alliance, including members of the Obidient Movement, have expressed optimism, saying the idea is gaining acceptance among Nigerians. However, others have raised concerns about potential conflicts within the ADC, given the number of high-profile politicians now in the party.
The ADC currently hosts several political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, raising questions about how leadership positions and party tickets will be decided.
Despite these concerns, political stakeholders believe cooperation among opposition figures will be key to mounting a strong challenge in 2027. They argue that unity within the ADC could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape and create a more competitive electoral environment.
Kwankwaso’s move to the ADC marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s evolving political scene, with many now watching closely to see how alliances and strategies develop ahead of the next general election.
