Obi, Kwankwaso Form 2027 Alliance Committee; Obasanjo Reportedly Brokered Deal

A proposed alliance between Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, for a joint 2027 presidential ticket has progressed, with a joint committee now formed to actualize the plan within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Sources close to the talks told Sunday PUNCH that former President Olusegun Obasanjo initiated the alliance, encouraging both leaders to join forces under the ADC banner. Obasanjo is said to have connected Obi with northern power brokers to advance the effort.

Th e committee comprising members from both campsis reportedly tasked with strategy and mobilizing support for the joint ticket. National Legal Adviser of the New Nigeria Peoples Party and Kwankwasiyya Movement leader, Magaji Ibrahim (SAN), confirmed his membership and stated that discussions were at an “advanced stage.”

While Kwankwaso has yet to formally join the ADC, a top source within his camp indicated that he is prepared to serve as either presidential or vice-presidential candidate.

In response, the ADC’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party was not officially aware of the alliance discussions but welcomed Kwankwaso, describing him as a “strong political leader.” Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s camp downplayed any threat from the alliance, with his spokesperson stating Atiku remains focused on his own political path.

Meanwhile, some supporters of Obi are advocating for the party’s presidential ticket to be zoned to the South, arguing it offers the surest path to defeating President Bola Tinubu in 2027. However, several ADC state chairmen cautioned that such zoning agitation could undermine the party’s broader coalition-building efforts.