Nigerian president’s rivals get major boost as political heavyweight joins fold

A significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape has emerged as opposition leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joins the African Democratic Congress (ADC), strengthening the coalition that aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 election. Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano state, resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) on Monday and officially aligned with the ADC the same day.

Kwankwaso’s departure marks a strategic realignment as the ADC gathers momentum against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which has held power since 2015. The coalition has welcomed other notable figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and ex-state governor Peter Obi, both of whom are considered Tinubu’s primary adversaries. Kwankwaso’s 2023 presidential bid ended with a fourth-place finish, while Abubakar and Obi secured second and third positions respectively.

Kwankwaso cited the need for a “new political platform” to drive national change, stating in a statement,

“I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation.”

His decision to leave the NNPP follows a broader trend of party realignment, with his followers, known as the Kwankwasiyya movement, maintaining loyalty across multiple political transitions.

The ADC’s expansion coincides with the final stretch before the January 2027 elections. President Tinubu has been endorsed by the APC for a second term, making him a strong contender. However, the ADC remains without a confirmed flagbearer, relying on Kwankwaso’s influence and support base in northern Nigeria—a region with a predominantly Muslim population that plays a critical role in national voting patterns.

With security threats escalating across the country, Kwankwaso’s background as a former defense minister provides the ADC with a compelling narrative. Prior to his official announcement, rumors of his move had already sparked activity among supporters, who gathered outside his Kano residence waving ADC banners. Photos shared on social media showed him meeting senior ADC members, underscoring the coalition’s growing visibility.

Kwankwaso’s political journey took a contentious turn in February when U.S. Republican lawmakers proposed sanctions against him over allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria. While some right-wing circles in the U.S. have raised claims of genocide against the country’s Christian community, the Nigerian government disputes these accusations, asserting that violence affects all faiths equally. The NNPP strongly opposed the bill, calling it unfounded and noting Kwankwaso’s lack of ties to religious extremism.

Meanwhile, the ADC is gaining traction as Nigeria’s leading opposition parties face internal strife. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is divided into rival factions, diminishing its traditional role as the main opposition force. The Labour Party (LP) also struggles with organizational challenges, creating space for the ADC to emerge as a formidable alternative.

Nigeria’s electoral commission has introduced reforms to address concerns raised by the disputed 2023 vote. New rules mandate real-time electronic transmission of polling results. However, opposition parties have criticized provisions allowing manual sorting of votes in areas with limited internet access, fearing reduced transparency in the process.

Follow BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Connect with us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, Facebook at BBC Africa, or Instagram at bbcafrica.