2027: Mixed reactions trail possible Obi-Kwankwaso ticket in North

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso may split northern votes in the 2027 presidential election if they contest on different political platforms, according to political stakeholders and supporters in northern Nigeria.

There are ongoing talks about a possible alliance between Peter Obi and Kwankwaso, while Atiku is expected to run separately with another running mate yet to be announced.

Speaking on the issue, ADC chieftain Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada said northern votes could be divided because of the different alliances ahead of the election.

According to him, Kwankwaso’s strongest support base is in Kano State, while Atiku has supporters across many northern states.

He also claimed that some northern voters are uncomfortable with Obi because of religious concerns linked to the 2023 election campaign, adding that this could weaken Kwankwaso’s chances in 2027.

Wada further said many northerners are unhappy with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and may prefer to support another northern candidate. He added that some Kwankwaso supporters are discouraged because he may run as a vice-presidential candidate instead of president.

On the other hand, Kano Obidient Coordinator, Barrister Ibrahim Muhammad, said the northern voting pattern in 2027 could be different from that of 2023 because of the proposed alliances.

He explained that voting decisions may depend on factors such as regional strength, choice of running mates, and which candidate voters believe can defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Muhammad also spoke about a wider opposition coalition involving parties such as the Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

He claimed that some northerners now see Atiku’s political ambition as personal rather than part of a united opposition effort.

According to him, an Obi/Kwankwaso alliance could perform strongly in Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and other North-West states, while Obi’s influence may also help in the North-East and North-Central regions.

However, Kano-based activist Mamman Buhari said neither Atiku nor Kwankwaso may eventually succeed. He accused both Kwankwaso and Obi of acting out of personal interest, while also saying Atiku has contested for too long.