Former Kano State Governor and the 2023 presidential candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso, has forecasted that the 2027 elections will be the most challenging in Nigeria’s democratic history.
Kwankwaso also expressed his party’s willingness to form alliances with other political entities, including President Bola Tinubu, Goodluck Jonathan, and Peter Obi.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso, who recently celebrated his 69th birthday, anticipated a more intense and competitive election, noting that Nigerians have become increasingly politically conscious and eager to alter their situations.
He remarked, “I believe the 2027 elections will be significantly more challenging. People are now better informed, more concerned, and more engaged. Everyone is looking for a solution due to the current state of the country.
“Thanks to radio and social media, the populace is now more knowledgeable. We may witness unprecedented events in Nigeria’s electoral history. This time, people will not sell their votes; they desire genuine change.”
Kwankwaso affirmed that the NNPP is open to collaborating with any political party or individual that aligns with its vision for a thriving Nigeria and dedication to the welfare of the populace.
However, he emphasized that any merger or alliance must be based on mutual respect, clear advantages, and shared principles, particularly the elevation of the common citizen.
The former presidential candidate stated, “We are prepared to partner with anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we find their competence and integrity satisfactory, we will unite to achieve success.
“But any partner must be dedicated to enhancing the lives of Nigerians. If they do not meet our expectations, we will not proceed with them.
“What we are requesting is straightforward: that the ordinary people should benefit, that the youth should receive education, and that security should be improved.
Kwankwaso asserted that the NNPP, which presented candidates in every state during the 2023 elections, has emerged as a national entity capable of shaping the political landscape of the nation.
He recalled that in September, he had suggested the potential for NNPP to collaborate with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but emphasized that any such collaboration must provide substantial benefits for the NNPP’s structures and candidates.
He stated, “If you are proposing that we align with the APC, you must clarify what advantages NNPP will receive. We have gubernatorial candidates in every state and comprehensive structures across the country. What will you provide them if we decide to join?”
The former Minister of Defence also criticized Nigeria’s political elite, accusing them of ignoring the plight of ordinary citizens while indulging in opulence in Abuja.
Kwankwaso remarked, “Our citizens are being killed in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and certain areas of Kaduna. The victims are everyday people. The elites have escaped to Abuja, where they reside in luxury, constructing grand homes, driving high-end vehicles, and profiting at the expense of the populace.
“They behave as though they are beyond reproach, but I firmly believe that Allah will hold them accountable.”
