Olusegun Obasanjo, former president, visited Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) vice-presidential candidate, at his Kano residence on Thursday. The meeting has renewed political speculation over opposition realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.
Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, NDC governorship candidate in Kano State, joined Kwankwaso to receive Obasanjo during what aides described as a private courtesy visit.
Speculation over opposition realignments
Saifullahi Hassan, media aide to Kwankwaso, issued a statement noting that the meeting featured “warm exchanges” between the two political figures. The statement did not disclose the specific issues discussed.
The visit comes amid increasing discussion about possible collaboration among key opposition leaders as preparations for the 2027 election gather momentum.
Obasanjo and Kwankwaso share a long-standing political relationship dating back to the former president’s administration. Kwankwaso served as minister of defence during Obasanjo’s second term in office between 2003 and 2007.
Strategic consultations ahead of 2027
Political observers believe the meeting could strengthen ongoing consultations within the opposition camp, although neither side has commented officially on any formal arrangement.
Peter Obi, NDC presidential candidate, is also a close political ally of Obasanjo. The former president publicly supported Obi during the 2023 presidential election. Recent reports suggest Obasanjo played a key role in facilitating an alliance between Obi and Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 polls.
Neither Obasanjo nor Kwankwaso addressed journalists after the meeting, leaving the purpose of the visit open to speculation. However, the encounter is expected to attract significant attention within Nigeria’s political landscape as parties continue coalition talks ahead of the next general election.
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