The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Sunday visited Kano State, where he met with former governor and political stalwart, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in a move that has intensified speculation about potential political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting, held at Kwankwaso’s Miller Road residence in Kano, brought together several influential figures, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson, and activist Naajatu Mohammed, among others.
The high-profile gathering has fueled discussions about a possible political realignment, with indications that Kwankwaso could consider leaving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking during the annual Kwankwassiya Sallah celebration, Obi said his visit was primarily to mark the festive occasion and honour Kwankwaso, while also reiterating his vision for economic revitalisation in Kano.
“I’m here to felicitate with you on the occasion of Sallah and to pay my respect to our leader,” Obi said. “We want to change Kano. We want to build a new Kano. What we want to do is bring back the power of Kano—all those factories in Bompai, Sharada 1, Sharada 2, Bank of the North—we want to bring all of them back. Today is not politics; it is the celebration of Sallah.”
The event underscored efforts by Obi and his allies to strengthen engagement with northern stakeholders and highlight a commitment to restoring Kano’s industrial base, once regarded as a major economic hub in Nigeria.
Kwankwaso, who hosted the gathering, welcomed the delegation and expressed delight at the unity displayed by leaders and supporters during the Sallah festivities.
