Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Their move is causing debate across Northern Nigeria, with many people unsure how voters in the region will react.
Some political leaders say this alliance could help build a stronger opposition. However, others believe it may not have the expected impact.
The two leaders officially joined the NDC in Abuja, where they were given membership cards by the party’s chairman, Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe.
Kwankwaso said their decision came after discussions with party members, adding that they share similar beliefs with the NDC. Obi also said the party aims to rebuild Nigeria and improve governance. He urged members to stay united and avoid internal conflicts or court cases.
Both men had earlier left the African Democratic Congress (ADC), blaming internal problems and legal disputes.
Why They Chose NDC
The Kwankwasiyya movement said the NDC is a safer option ahead of the 2027 elections. Its spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, explained that the ADC is facing many court cases and internal issues, which could affect its performance.
He said they wanted a stable platform without legal troubles. According to him, the NDC is still new, but it offers a chance to help build a fresh political structure.
Mohammed also suggested that a joint ticket between Obi and Kwankwaso could promote unity and fairness across the country.
Views on APC and Political Strategy
Mohammed believes the ruling APC may not have enough time to interfere with new opposition parties because it is busy handling its own internal matters ahead of the elections.
Criticism of the Alliance
Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu criticized Obi and Kwankwaso, saying they may be overestimating their popularity. He argued that moving from one party to another could weaken their credibility.
He also warned that other opposition groups might instead join the APC, which could reduce the strength of Obi and Kwankwaso’s alliance.
According to him, only a united opposition can defeat the ruling party in 2027.
Mixed Reactions from the North
Reactions from residents in Northern Nigeria are divided.
A Kano resident, Lukman Shuaibu, said he would continue to support Kwankwaso no matter the party he joins, because of his connection with grassroots people.
Another resident, Naziru Dalhatu, believes an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket would represent the whole country, not just one region. He said many Nigerians want change and could support any strong alliance.
Dalhatu also claimed that the NDC is gaining popularity quickly, with many people joining the party.
However, a youth from Jigawa, Muhammad Rabiu Musa, disagreed. He questioned what the alliance would do differently if elected and said they have not presented a clear plan.
He also raised concerns about religion and ethnicity, suggesting these factors could affect their chances in Northern Nigeria.
Conclusion
The alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso has created both hope and doubt. While some see it as a strong move to challenge the ruling party, others believe it may not succeed without clear plans and broader unity.
