Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has dismissed rumors of ongoing alliance talks with other political parties as the 2027 presidential election approaches. While he acknowledged that his party is open to discussions, he emphasized that there is no rush to make political moves and that any future engagements will be carefully considered.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso reassured his supporters that the NNPP is not currently in talks with any party regarding an alliance, despite growing speculation of possible discussions with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He clarified that while his party is open to dialogue, it remains firmly grounded in its current position.
“Our members are not in a hurry; everything we do is carefully considered,” Kwankwaso stated. “The NNPP is not in discussions with any political party at the moment for the purpose of forming an alliance, but that does not rule out future engagements. We are politicians, and we are always open to dialogue with anyone willing to engage with us.”
Kwankwaso’s comments come amidst increasing reports suggesting that President Bola Tinubu has been courting the former Kano State governor for an alliance with the APC ahead of the 2027 elections. There have also been rumors that Tinubu may offer Kwankwaso a ministerial position in return for his support, though Kwankwaso has not confirmed any such offer.
The rumors gained traction following Kwankwaso’s visit to the Presidential Villa, during which he declined to speak to journalists after the meeting, fueling speculation that discussions may have taken place behind closed doors.
However, Kwankwaso appears to be playing it cautiously, stating that while political discussions are part of the game, he and his party are not making hasty decisions. “There is no need for haste in political decisions,” he said. “Our members are content where they are, and we believe in taking our time to make the right choices.”
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, many political observers are closely watching the moves of key opposition figures like Kwankwaso. While he has not confirmed any alliances, his comments signal that he is keeping his options open while maintaining a strategic approach.
The NNPP, which Kwankwaso led during the 2019 and 2023 elections, has grown into a significant player in Nigerian politics, especially in the northern region. However, after losing the presidential race in 2023, the party’s future direction remains uncertain, with many wondering if it will continue to operate independently or join forces with larger parties like the APC.
There have also been speculations about possible talks with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a smaller opposition party, though no official statements have been made regarding any discussions.
Kwankwaso’s measured response highlights the cautious approach he and his party are taking in the face of pressure to form alliances ahead of the next election cycle. His openness to dialogue without rushing into decisions reflects a pragmatic strategy aimed at safeguarding the party’s future and ensuring that any political move aligns with the interests of his supporters.
Rabiu Kwankwaso’s political career has been marked by his tenure as the governor of Kano State and his efforts to build the NNPP into a national party. His influence in the north, particularly in Kano, has been a crucial factor in his political trajectory. However, with Nigeria’s political landscape evolving rapidly, Kwankwaso faces important decisions about the role his party will play in the 2027 election. The talk of alliances with major parties like APC and ADC highlights the shifting dynamics as politicians prepare for the next election cycle.
