Kwankwasiyya defends Obi alliance talks, says critics fear emerging political coalition

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has defended ongoing discussions around a possible political alliance between its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing criticisms of the move as signs of growing anxiety within sections of the political establishment.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the movement said the prospect of both political figures working together under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) represents a “new political equation” capable of reshaping Nigeria’s democratic landscape ahead of future elections.

The statement, signed by the spokesperson of the movement, Habibu Sale Mohammed, said the growing public conversation around the possible cooperation between the two leaders had been largely welcomed by Nigerians across regional and religious lines.

According to the group, the alliance discussions have generated concern among some political interests because of the electoral strength and grassroots appeal associated with both leaders.

The movement noted that Senator Kwankwaso commands a strong political structure across Kano and the wider Northwest region, while Obi continues to enjoy significant support among youths and urban voters, particularly in Southern Nigeria.

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It argued that the possibility of both politicians joining forces could bridge longstanding regional divides in opposition politics and create a broader national coalition built on inclusion and issue-based governance.

The group, however, accused some commentators of launching what it described as selective attacks against Kwankwaso in an attempt to portray him as politically disruptive, while similar political engagements by other actors were being celebrated as strategic.

“This double standard is both unfortunate and revealing,” the statement said.

The movement maintained that Kwankwaso’s political relevance was rooted in years of grassroots engagement and public service rather than access to federal power or media influence.

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It added that the former Kano governor had consistently demonstrated political independence and remained connected to ordinary Nigerians, especially young people and low-income citizens.

The statement further warned against reducing what it described as a potentially historic political realignment into “elite propaganda and personality attacks.”

According to the movement, Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges require coalition-building, national unity, and credible alternative leadership capable of restoring public confidence in governance and democracy.

It urged political stakeholders and commentators to embrace fairness and maturity in national discourse, stressing that democracy thrives on inclusion, healthy competition, and strategic cooperation rather than divisive narratives.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to what it called a democratic future built on unity, mutual respect, and constructive national engagement.