Northern reactions are currently trailing Peter Obi and Kwankwaso move to NDC ahead of 2027.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the recent political realignment involving former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has continued to spark debate across Northern Nigeria, with mixed reactions trailing their defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
While leaders of the NDC have described the development as a step toward building a stronger and more united opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections, opinions within the region remain divided over its potential impact.
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Both political figures were formally received at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, where the National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, presented them with membership cards, marking their official entry into the party.
Speaking at the event, Kwankwaso said the decision followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders, adding that there was a clear alignment in ideology.
“We engaged with the leadership of the party and found that our beliefs are similar,” he said.
Obi, on his part, said the platform is focused on rebuilding Nigeria and restoring public confidence in governance. He also urged party members to prioritise unity and avoid internal disputes that could weaken the party.
The duo had earlier exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing internal crises and legal uncertainties within the party.
Reacting to the development, the Kwankwasiyya movement described the NDC as a more stable platform ahead of the 2027 elections. Its spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, noted that ongoing legal battles within the ADC made it a risky platform for political engagement.
He explained that concerns over multiple court cases and leadership disputes influenced the decision to seek what he described as a “safer political platform.”
Mohammed also suggested that a potential joint ticket between Obi and Kwankwaso could promote national unity, adding that voters in the North may prioritise competence over regional considerations.
However, not all reactions have been favourable.
Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu expressed scepticism about the frequent political movements of both leaders, warning that shifting alliances could weaken their credibility and electoral strength.
He argued that evolving political dynamics since the 2023 elections may affect their chances, stressing that opposition unity remains critical to mounting a strong challenge in 2027.
Across Northern Nigeria, public opinion appears split.
Some residents, particularly supporters of Kwankwaso, have expressed continued loyalty, insisting they will follow him regardless of party affiliation. Others see the alliance as a potential pathway to national unity and political change.
However, a section of respondents questioned the clarity of the alliance’s agenda, raising concerns about the absence of a detailed policy direction and its ability to address Nigeria’s pressing governance challenges.
There are also concerns that ethnic and religious considerations may influence voter perception in parts of the North.
As political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, the reception of the Obi-Kwankwaso alliance within key voting regions like Northern Nigeria is expected to remain a major factor in shaping the country’s political landscape.
