The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed regret over his failure to form an alliance with the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2023 general election.
Kwankwaso admitted that a joint presidential ticket with Obi could have defeated the All Progressives Congress (APC) and prevented the party from retaining power at the federal level.
During the build-up to the 2023 presidential election, the former Kano State governor rejected proposals to work with Obi, reportedly arguing that he possessed greater political experience and higher academic qualifications, including a PhD.
However, speaking to party supporters at the 360 Event Centre in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, on Saturday, Kwankwaso admitted that he did not fully understand Obi’s political influence at the time.
He said a better understanding of the former Anambra State governor in 2023 could have resulted in an alliance capable of defeating the APC.
“I did not truly understand Peter Obi until now. Had I understood him better in 2023, we would have collaborated and ousted the All Progressives Congress from the presidency,” Kwankwaso said.
The former Kano governor described his decision to align with Obi ahead of the 2027 general election as a significant turning point, expressing optimism that their political partnership would bring about national development.
Kwankwaso also disclosed that the NDC leadership had agreed to appoint him as Minister of Education if the party wins the 2027 presidential election.
His remarks come amid renewed political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with the NDC banking on the partnership between Kwankwaso and Obi to challenge the ruling APC.
