The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan.
Although details of the discussions were not disclosed, political observers believe the meeting may be part of ongoing consultations and strategic realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.
Kwankwaso arrived in Ibadan with members of the NNPP’s national leadership, including the party’s National Chairman, Dr Ajid Ahmed, and National Publicity Secretary, Najipo Johnson, among other top officials.
Visit ‘Beyond Partisan Politics’
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Kwankwaso said his primary mission to Oyo State was to inaugurate the NNPP’s new state office as part of efforts to strengthen the party’s structure and unity in preparation for 2027.
He, however, stressed that his visit to Makinde transcended party lines.
“Before proceeding to the party office, I felt it was important to pay a courtesy visit to the governor, who has always been our friend. This visit is more about personal friendship than party politics,” Kwankwaso said.
Makinde is a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party, a party Kwankwaso once played a key role in building.
Political Journey
Reflecting on his political history, the former Kano State governor noted that he was among the founding members of the PDP in 1998 and was elected governor of Kano State under its platform in 1999. He also served as Minister of Defence and later returned as governor under the same party.
Kwankwaso subsequently defected to the All Progressives Congress before aligning with the NNPP, where he now serves as national leader.
Following the courtesy visit, Kwankwaso proceeded to inaugurate the NNPP’s state office in Ibadan, describing the move as a significant step toward consolidating the party’s presence in Oyo State.
2027 Calculations
The meeting comes amid shifting political dynamics. Kwankwaso recently lost his political ally, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, to the APC, a development that has sparked speculation about his next political move.
There have also been reports suggesting that Kwankwaso may consider joining the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections, though he has maintained that his political future would depend on opportunities available.
Commenting on Yusuf’s defection, Kwankwaso expressed confidence that the NNPP would challenge the APC’s hold on Kano in 2027.
Analysts say the Ibadan visit may signal broader consultations and coalition-building efforts as political heavyweights begin positioning for the next presidential race.
