Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has declared that former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will serve as an equal partner in government if they win the 2027 presidential election.
Obi made the statement during the party’s national convention in Abuja, where Kwankwaso was unveiled as his running mate ahead of the general election. The announcement marks a major political realignment involving two prominent figures from the 2023 presidential race.
Obi emphasized that their proposed administration would be built on collaboration, inclusiveness, and joint decision-making, insisting that the office of the vice president would not be treated as ceremonial or secondary. He said the era of describing the vice president as a “spare tyre” would end under their leadership.
“The vice president will be a partner because we want to build a nation where there are two equal people who work for the greatness of the country,” Obi said. “Decisions will be taken jointly. Everybody will be consulted.”
He added that governance under their administration would focus on teamwork and shared responsibility, stressing that effective leadership requires continuous consultation and collective accountability.
Obi also formally accepted the party’s presidential nomination and extended an invitation to Kwankwaso to join him on the ticket, describing the alliance as one driven by shared values and national interest.
Kwankwaso, a former presidential candidate under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in 2023, remains a significant political figure, particularly in Kano State where he commands strong grassroots support. Both he and Obi finished third and fourth respectively in the last presidential election, behind President Bola Tinubu.
Obi said their partnership is anchored on common priorities such as education reform, improved security, and expanded opportunities for citizens. He noted that Kwankwaso’s focus on education and security aligns closely with his own policy direction.
Political observers say the alliance could reshape the 2027 electoral landscape, bringing together two influential blocs with strong regional followings ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive presidential race.
