Kwankwaso Confirms One-Term Agreement With Peter Obi, Criticises APC’s Muslim-Muslim Ticket
Former Kano State Governor and leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has confirmed the existence of a reported single-term agreement with former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, while also questioning the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s decision to field a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.
Kwankwaso made the remarks during a recent political engagement, where he addressed growing speculation about the opposition’s plans ahead of the 2027 general election. His comments have added a new dimension to discussions surrounding coalition efforts aimed at challenging the ruling APC in the next presidential poll.
According to Kwankwaso, the reported understanding between him and Obi is part of ongoing efforts to build a broad-based political alliance capable of offering Nigerians an alternative platform. He suggested that discussions among opposition figures have focused on promoting unity and ensuring that personal ambitions do not undermine the objective of political change.
Speaking on the reported single-term arrangement, Kwankwaso said such an agreement was designed to strengthen trust among coalition partners and demonstrate their commitment to national interest above individual political aspirations. He maintained that the arrangement should not be viewed as unusual, noting that similar political agreements have been reached in democratic systems around the world.
The former Kano governor also criticised the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket, arguing that Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity should be reflected in the country’s highest political offices. He said inclusive leadership remains important for national unity and for ensuring that every segment of society feels represented in government.
Kwankwaso questioned whether the decision to field candidates from the same religious background adequately reflected Nigeria’s diversity. He argued that the country’s multi-religious and multi-ethnic nature requires leaders to adopt approaches that foster inclusion, mutual respect and national cohesion.
The APC has consistently defended its Muslim-Muslim ticket, maintaining that competence, experience and the ability to deliver effective governance were the primary considerations in selecting its candidates. Party leaders have also argued that appointments made since assuming office reflect Nigeria’s diversity across different regions and backgrounds.
Kwankwaso’s latest remarks come as political consultations continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections. Several opposition parties have been exploring the possibility of forming alliances to improve their chances of unseating the ruling party, while discussions over zoning, power-sharing and candidate selection continue behind closed doors.
Political analysts believe confirmation of a reported single-term pact, if eventually formalised, could influence the dynamics of opposition politics and shape negotiations among coalition partners. They note that such arrangements often aim to balance competing interests while presenting a united front during elections.
The comments have generated mixed reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape. Supporters of Kwankwaso and Obi described the reported agreement as a practical strategy for strengthening opposition unity, while critics questioned whether such an arrangement would remain effective if political circumstances change before the election.
The discussion surrounding the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket has also resurfaced, with supporters defending the party’s electoral victory and opponents continuing to argue that greater religious balance should be considered in future presidential contests.
As preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum, political leaders are expected to continue consultations and negotiations aimed at building alliances and mobilising public support. Issues relating to governance, economic reforms, national unity and constitutional principles are likely to dominate campaign conversations in the coming months.
While Kwankwaso’s remarks have intensified political debate, the reported single-term agreement and his criticism of the APC’s ticket remain part of the broader political discourse as parties continue positioning themselves for what is expected to be another highly competitive presidential election.
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