Kwankwaso Set to Join ADC as Kano Support Base Prepares for Major Political Realignment

The National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, is expected to formally defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday in Kano, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

Credible sources within both the NNPP and ADC confirmed that the former Kano State governor would make his declaration in the presence of party leaders, signalling a potential realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move is also expected to draw a large turnout of supporters in Kano, widely regarded as Kwankwaso’s political stronghold.

Negotiations, Conditions, and Final Agreement

The planned defection follows months of strategic negotiations between Kwankwaso and the ADC leadership. Insiders revealed that discussions initially stalled after the former governor reportedly demanded assurances of a vice-presidential slot for the 2027 elections. However, the ADC leadership, including its National Chairman, David Mark, declined to make such a commitment at the time.

This disagreement led to a temporary delay in Kwankwaso’s planned declaration earlier in the week. Nonetheless, fresh talks—particularly a private meeting with the party’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, in Abuja—reportedly resolved the impasse. Sources indicated that Kwankwaso eventually agreed to join the ADC without preconditions.

Further consultations involving Kano-based ADC officials reinforced the decision, paving the way for Monday’s anticipated announcement. The development underscores a pragmatic compromise by both sides, prioritising broader political strategy over initial demands.

Political Alliances and Emerging Opposition Bloc

Kwankwaso’s move comes amid wider efforts to build a formidable opposition coalition ahead of the next electoral cycle. The ADC has reportedly intensified alliance talks with key political figures, including Peter Obi and Seriake Dickson, as well as other influential actors across party lines.

Notably, former President Olusegun Obasanjo is said to be playing a behind-the-scenes role in encouraging collaboration among opposition leaders. These discussions aim to consolidate fragmented political interests into a unified front capable of mounting a strong challenge in 2027.

In parallel, the ADC is also exploring a strategic alliance with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), with ongoing engagements involving prominent figures such as Seyi Makinde. The broader objective, according to insiders, is to create a cohesive opposition bloc that can negotiate collectively and strengthen its electoral prospects.

APC Dismisses Threat as Political Reactions Emerge

Despite the significance of the development, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed its potential impact. The party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, stated that Kwankwaso’s defection poses no threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election ambitions.

Basiru argued that Kwankwaso lacks the nationwide political structure required to mount a serious challenge, pointing to his performance in the 2023 presidential election, where he secured victory in only one state. He emphasised that the APC remains focused on governance and is unconcerned about opposition movements.

Meanwhile, within the NNPP, reactions have been mixed, with some officials confirming awareness of the planned defection while others claimed limited information. The anticipated move is also expected to include key allies, such as former Kano Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo, further signalling a possible shift in regional political dynamics.

Kwankwaso’s imminent defection to the ADC represents more than a routine party switch; it highlights ongoing efforts to reshape Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of 2027. While the APC remains confident in its position, the consolidation of influential political figures under new alliances could redefine the competitive landscape in the coming years.